Author name: Genevieve Mensah

Virtual University

Moral Leadership Starts with Example, Not Words, Says Prof. Justice Bawole

/

Prof. Justice Bawole, the former Dean of the University of Ghana Business School, says authentic leadership is not about giving orders but living in a way that others can follow. According to him, people watch a leader’s actions more than they listen to their words, and lasting influence comes from setting an example, not issuing constant instructions. Speaking on Springboard, Your Virtual University, with Rev. Albert Ocran as part of the ongoing Thinkathon: The Power of Ideas to Shape Society series, Prof. Bawole urged the nation to shift its focus from solely targeting wrongdoers to promoting a culture that showcases and rewards good conduct. “Many people are living right, protecting what they are given, and not destroying others. Unfortunately, we hardly talk about them,” he said. “We have saturated the environment with a toxic narrative of corruption, and good people have gone into hibernation. How do we model young people into becoming white when all we show them is red?” Prof. Bawole argued that altering Ghana’s moral climate demands more than sporadic punishments. He advocated for a continuous process of civic education to rekindle the national conscience. He also proposed three key interventions: conducting moral and ethical audits for public sector leaders, consistently celebrating good people in the public eye, and forming bonds with like-minded individuals who can offer moral support in challenging environments. Drawing on his leadership journey, Prof. Bawole emphasized that influence stems more from setting an example than from issuing instructions. “People watch what you do more than what you say. If they cannot find an alibi in you, they will try to do the right things, at least when you are around,” he noted. He added that leadership demands firm personal conviction and moral discipline. “If I enter politics and I change, then it is me who changed, not the politics. Leaders have to lead and not be led.” About Springboard, Your Virtual UniversitySpringboard, Your Virtual University, is a weekly motivational and personal development broadcast hosted by Rev. Albert Ocran. It airs every Sunday at 7 PM on Springboardzone (YouTube) and Joy FM, and at 9 PM on Joy News TV. The ongoing Thinkathon series brings together thinkers and leaders from various fields to explore the power of ideas in shaping society. By Faustina Yeboah

Hangout

It’s Time for Northern Kente to Take the Stage – Winifred Edjeani, Founder, Ekasa Kente

/

Founder of Ekasa Kente, Winifred Edjeani, has called for greater recognition of Northern Ghana’s unique Kente tradition while working to empower rural women through weaving and financial literacy. Speaking on Springboard Hangout with Lady Comfort Ocran, she shared how her brand was inspired by a desire to reduce the economic pressures that force women from the north to migrate to southern cities for low-paying jobs. “If I can empower them to make their own money and secure financial freedom where they are, they won’t have to come to Accra to carry heavy loads for tiny wages,” she said. Ms. Edjeani explained that the idea for Ekasa was born after conducting research with 200 Kayayo women during the COVID-19 pandemic, which revealed a lack of financial literacy and economic opportunities in their home communities. A visit to Tamale introduced her to a group of female weavers, leading to a programme that now trains over 30 young women. According to her, beyond fashion, she uses Ekasa as a platform to teach women how to manage their finances, a principle she learned from her father at the age of 13. “As a woman, you need to have your own money. I call it ‘bluff money’. I love to teach women how to make money, how to save it, and how to enjoy it,” she said. She added that the enterprise also supports the Nungua New Life Orphanage annually and provides resources to weaving families in the north, ensuring mothers can work alongside their children in safe environments. “We love and appreciate Ashanti Kente, but it’s time for the Northern Kente to take the stage,” she said. About Springboard HangoutSpringboard Hangout is a funducative, youth-centred show hosted by Lady Comfort Ocran. It features inspiring stories, practical skills, and real-life experiences to educate, entertain, and equip the next generation. By Faustina Yeboah

Hangout

Scrap Metal Artist Jeffery Yeboah Shares His Journey on Springboard Hangout

/

Jeffery Kwabena Yeboah, founder of Kae Kwabena Studios, has shared how he started his journey as a scrap metal artist with no prior knowledge of welding, and no financial support, but with a strong desire to succeed. He was speaking on Springboard Hangout with Lady Comfort Ocran in an episode titled Sparking Conversations with Scrap Metal. Mr. Yeboah recounted how his breakthrough came in 2015 when he decided to create tables using old car tires and jute ropes. According to him, the idea gained media attention and drew interest to his work, although it came with some challenges. “People thought I was just making tables, not art,” he said. “And I’ll blame myself for how I communicated it at the time.” Mr. Yeboah stated that he produced planters despite not having any background in welding. “I didn’t know anything about welding when I was asked to make planters for someone,” he said. “I even told her assistant to find someone else. But when she called me directly, I just said yes.” He  further revealed that his move to Accra as a child came with several challenges, but he remained focused on his education and eventually gained admission into the University of Ghana. “I entered Legon with nothing. I had to hustle. I started decorating rooms using PVC stickers just to survive,” he noted. The creative artist stated that his journey has been shaped by many helping hands, which inspired the name of his brand, Kae Kwabena, which means “remember Kwabena” in Akan. “Each time I say the name, I remember the hands that helped me. It keeps me humble and grateful,” he said. About Springboard HangoutSpringboard Hangout is a funducative, youth-centered show hosted by Lady Comfort Ocran. It features inspiring stories, practical skills, and real-life experiences to educate, entertain, and equip the next generation. By Faustina Yeboah

Edwuma

We’ve Trained Young Minds to Pass Exams, Not to Engage with the Real World –  Kow Aboagye-Ghunney.

/

Biology and Integrated Science teacher at West Africa Senior High School, Kow Aboagye-Ghunney, says Ghana’s education system must shift from theory-based learning to practical experiences that prepare students for real-life challenges. “We teach these children how to grow crops, and they come out and pass their exams, but if you put them beside a tomato plant, they can’t identify it,” he said. “I want to be part of the change I want to see.” Mr. Aboagye-Ghunney made the remarks during an interview on Ghana Grows Edwuma with host Yaa Bitha. The episode focused on how he introduced climate-smart farming into classroom instruction by starting a school farm that teaches students modern, hands-on agricultural practices. The farm, supported by the school’s leadership and staff, uses drip irrigation, plastic mulch, and power tillers in place of traditional hoes and watering cans. Students also receive training on installing irrigation systems and learn the theory behind using drones for pesticide application. “The students know how to prepare land using hand tractors. Nobody holds a hoe here. That’s what puts many young people off Agric,  the hard labour,” he explained. He added that exposing students to safe and modern farming practices could help shift mindsets and career choices. “I hope that when they grow up, they’ll choose this path and produce safer food for us all,” he added. About Ghana Grows Edwuma Ghana Grows Edwuma is a nationwide broadcast aired on TV and radio, aimed at encouraging young people to take up career opportunities in the agribusiness, agriculture, and ATVET sectors. By Faustina Yeboah

Hangout

“We’re Selling African Stories to the World” – Leti Arts Marks 15 Years of Cultural Gaming

/

Business Development Manager at Leti Arts, Prince Osei, says the company is proud to be telling authentic African stories through comics, animation, and games in a way that is modern, interactive, and relatable for all ages. Speaking on Springboard Hangout with Lady Comfort Ocran, he explained that Leti Arts, founded in 2009, has spent the last 15 years creating culturally rich content that reflects Africa’s history and identity. With over 60 games developed and more than one million downloads across platforms, Prince described their journey as one of impact, growth, and legacy. “At Leti Arts, we are focused on telling African stories with a contemporary feel,” he said. “These aren’t just games for fun,  they’re rooted in African folklore, created for global use, and built to resonate with Africans everywhere.” He explained that the idea was met with skepticism at first, especially by parents who viewed gaming as a waste of time. But over the years, the company has built a strong team, opened doors for young creatives, and proven that gaming can be both meaningful and profitable. “Today, that same thing our parents frowned on is helping us earn a living and even support our families,” he added. Leti Arts now runs regular internship programs with a minimum of 60 participants per cohort. They also support a game design course at Ashesi University to help shape the next generation of African storytellers. “We talk to traditional leaders and people from different ethnic groups to make sure we’re telling the right stories the right way,” he noted. Mr. Osei also pointed out that the global gaming industry is now three times larger than the music, sports, and film industries combined, mainly because these three areas are now being gamified. About Springboard HangoutSpringboard Hangout is a funducative, youth-centered show hosted by Lady Comfort Ocran. It features inspiring stories, practical skills, and real-life experiences to educate, entertain, and equip the next generation. By Faustina Yeboah

Virtual University

Is AI Coming for Your Job?

/

Imagine spending weeks perfecting your CV, writing a passionate cover letter, and applying for your dream job only to be screened out before a human ever sees your name. Welcome to the world of AI in recruitment. Artificial Intelligence is no longer in movies; it’s already sitting quietly in the background of most business processes, including hiring, customer service, content creation, and more. If you’ve ever applied for a job at a large organization, chances are an algorithm decided your fate long before a human did. “Companies like MTN receive thousands of CVs for a single job posting,” said Kobby ‘Spiky’ Nkrumah, IT Manager at Quantum LC Ltd. “There’s no way the HR department can manually go through all of them. AI tools are used to screen and shortlist candidates based on set criteria. If your CV doesn’t contain the right keywords that match the job, you’ve already been cut off  and you won’t even know it.” Mr. Nkrumah was speaking on Springboard, Your Virtual University with Rev. Albert Ocran, as part of the ongoing series AI in Business: Closer Than You Think. He didn’t mince words about the reality many professionals are avoiding: “If you sit down and think about your job and realize it can be automated, you’re at risk.” AI can analyze data faster, respond instantly, and work without sleep, salary, or bad days. But is it all doom and gloom? Not exactly. Jobs that involve deep human interaction, critical thinking, creativity, or emotional intelligence are still very safe for now. “A chatbot can answer simple questions,” Kobby said. “But if your service is built on human connection, don’t hide behind tech. There’s something we call ‘human in the mix.’ At some point, the machine must hand over to a real person.” He gave the example of businesses that lose customers because they rely too heavily on automated systems. “Not every issue should be handled by AI. The moment your customer feels misunderstood, you’ve lost them. That’s where a human should step in.” So what’s the way forward? According to Mr. Nkrumah, the solution isn’t to run from AI,  it’s to learn how to work with it. “Ten years ago, nobody thought they’d be called an AI trainer or prompt engineer. But today, people are being paid to train AI models, flag inappropriate content, or help algorithms understand human context.” He believes this digital shift is opening doors, especially for young people and small businesses. “Your customer can be in Ghana, Australia, or even North Korea; tech tools give you that reach. SMEs should start thinking beyond their local audience.” The biggest takeaway from the conversation is this: AI is not here to destroy jobs. It’s here to change how work is done. And whether you thrive or not will depend on how quickly you adapt. “If your job is repetitive, predictable, and doesn’t need human creativity or emotion, it’s a target,” he said. “But if you can build something AI can’t replicate your humanity, your judgement, your ideas, you’re not just safe. You’re in demand.” So, is AI coming for your job? Only if you stand still while the world moves forward. About Springboard, Your Virtual UniversitySpringboard, Your Virtual University is a weekly motivational and personal development broadcast hosted by Rev. Albert Ocran. It airs every Sunday at 7 PM on Springboardzone (YouTube) and Joy FM, and at 9 PM on Joy News TV. The ongoing AI for All series breaks down what artificial intelligence means for Africa’s future and how individuals can position themselves to grow in the new digital economy. By Faustina Yeboah

Hangout

“Your Health Is Your Power”– Experts Urge Young People to Eat and Live Better

/

 Dietician Madam Etornam Bansah and gym instructor Mr. Julius Siakpornu have stressed the need for young people to take control of their health by paying attention to their diet and committing to regular physical activity. Speaking on Springboard Hangout with Lady Comfort Ocran, they tackled practical questions about fitness, nutrition, and how simple lifestyle changes can improve long-term health outcomes. The discussion formed part of the Her Health Her Power series, designed to help young women make better choices for their minds and bodies. Nutritionist and dietician, Madam Bansah, encouraged young people to start by eating balanced meals rather than starving themselves in the name of weight loss. “For the average healthy person, eating just once or twice a day is not ideal,” she said. “Three main meals a day with healthy snacks in between is fine. Starving slows your metabolism and throws your body off.” She also cautioned against replacing food with supplements. “Supplements are fine, but they’re meant to support, not replace, good nutrition. Your meals should look like a rainbow: different colors, fruits, vegetables, proteins. That’s the foundation.” Madam Bansah, who was drawn to nutrition after a childhood encounter with a woman suffering from goiter, added that people should avoid self-medicating with supplements unless they’ve been properly diagnosed. “Don’t just pop iron or calcium pills because you feel dizzy. Know your history. If you’re pregnant, a sickle cell patient, or have a condition, talk to a doctor first.” Mr. Siakpornu also touched on the importance of warming up before workouts. “Your muscles are like you; they sleep at night. Warming up wakes them and prepares them for what’s coming. You can’t just jump into lifting or jogging without alerting your body.” He also explained why water is essential during exercise. “You need to stay hydrated to keep your circulation going. When your throat gets dry, it’s your body asking for help. Take small sips to stay balanced.” About Springboard HangoutSpringboard Hangout is a funducative, youth-centered show hosted by Lady Comfort Ocran. It features inspiring stories, practical skills, and real-life experiences to educate, entertain, and equip the next generation. By Faustina Yeboah

Virtual University

“AI Makes Us Better, Not Lazy,” Says Tech Expert Kobby ‘Spiky’ Nkrumah

/

Technology expert Kobby ‘Spiky’ Nkrumah says artificial intelligence (AI) is not making people lazy, but rather helping individuals become more efficient, creative, and productive. “We may seem to think that progress is making us lazy, but it is alleviating us from simple tasks that we could just give to something else to do. And then we could explore much more difficult tasks,” he said. Speaking on Springboard, Your Virtual University with Rev. Albert Ocran, the IT Manager at Quantum LC Ltd, explained that AI has been around since the 1950s, but only gained mass attention in the 2020s with the rise of tools like ChatGPT. Long before that, he noted, people had already been using AI in everyday tools without knowing it. “Google Maps is a great example. It tracks how many people are on a particular road, how fast they’re moving, and uses that data to determine where there’s traffic. That’s AI. Your social media feed? It recommends content based on your interests, not because someone is manually tracking you, but because AI is learning your behavior,” he said. Mr. Nkrumah argued that the power of AI lies in how it mimics human intelligence without being held back by distractions or emotions. “Humans have to think about what to eat or what to wear. AI doesn’t have mood swings or bad days. It just gets the job done faster and more accurately,” he said. Touching on the belief that AI is only for lazy people, “Then I’m lazy,” he said. “I’ve always looked for efficiency in my work. If a task can be automated, why repeat it? AI has helped me learn more and do more.” He also pointed out that while current AI systems are designed for specific tasks, the future will see more general-purpose AI that can handle multiple complex assignments. “We’re not there yet, but it’s coming,” he said. For Mr. Nkrumah, the real value of AI comes down to how well you use it. “Even giving AI the right prompt is a skill. If you know how to use it well, you’ll benefit more. If you don’t, you won’t. That’s the difference.” He challenged people to stop glorifying suffering and rethink what productivity should look like in this era. “We’ve inherited a culture that glorifies struggle. But what if AI could do the math for you and give you room to solve higher problems? Isn’t that progress?” he asked. The conversation forms part of the ongoing AI for All series on Springboard, Your Virtual University, which is exploring how artificial intelligence is reshaping work, learning, creativity, and everyday life. About Springboard, Your Virtual UniversitySpringboard, Your Virtual University is a weekly motivational and personal development broadcast hosted by Rev. Albert Ocran. It airs every Sunday at 7PM on Springboardzone (YouTube) and Joy FM, and at 9 PM on Joy News TV. The ongoing AI for All series features thought leaders breaking down what AI means for Africa’s future and how individuals can position themselves to benefit. By Faustina Yeboah

Virtual University

“The Sea Is the Final Receiver of Our Waste,” Says Buz Stop Boys

/

2025 MTN Heroes of Change Sustainability and Transformation Award winners, Buz Stop Boys, are urging Ghanaians to rethink how waste is managed in communities, revealing that the ocean often ends up carrying the consequences of poor sanitation habits. Speaking on Springboard, Your Virtual University, with Rev. Albert Ocran, founder of the group, Mr. Heneba Kwadwo Sarfo, explained that most of the waste seen at the country’s shores doesn’t come from the beach itself, but from the poor environmental sanitation habits. “Each time I visited the seaside, I saw the same pattern,” he said. “Much of the waste in the ocean comes from outside. The sea ends up receiving what is poorly handled elsewhere.” According to Mr. Kwadwo Sarfo, Buz Stop Boys was founded two years ago and started as a simple idea to clean neglected public spaces like bus stops and inspire mindset change on cleanliness and environmental care. “When I heard the idea, I didn’t think it was crazy. I saw something meaningful, an opportunity to make a difference and also shift how people think about sanitation,” committed member, Mr. James Sarfo, added. The group, which began as a two-man effort, has grown into a nationally recognized campaign for cleaner cities and responsible waste management. Beyond physical clean-ups, the Buz Stop Boys use social media to tell compelling stories that draw attention to sanitation and sustainability issues. “Social media is a powerful tool,” Mr. Kwadwo Sarfo noted. “Instead of only using it for trends, we decided to use it to show people what’s possible, to make cleanliness visible, and to spark a mindset shift.” The team added that public perception is shifting. “People would pass by, smile, and bless us, but few would stop to help.” “We understood that most impactful work doesn’t get much attention at first, and we kept going.” Mr. Heneba Kwadwo Sarfo added that, “It’s about reminding Ghanaians that we all have a part to play in protecting our environment for future generations.” The conversation was part of the Changing Narratives series on Springboard, Your Virtual University, which profiles Ghanaians leading transformational change in various fields. About Springboard, Your Virtual University Springboard, Your Virtual University is a weekly motivational and personal development broadcast hosted by Rev. Albert Ocran. It airs every Sunday at 7 PM online and on Joy FM and at 9 PM on Joy News TV. The ongoing Changing Narratives series highlights Ghanaians reshaping the national story through innovation, leadership, and impact. By Faustina Yeboah

Virtual University

“Every Cancer Patient Deserves a Special Nurse” – Naomi Oyoe Ohene Oti

/

2025 Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award winner, Naomi Oyoe Ohene Oti, is calling for greater recognition of cancer nursing as a dedicated specialty within healthcare, saying patients battling such conditions deserve focused, expert care. Speaking on Springboard, Your Virtual University with Rev. Albert Ocran, the Oncology Nurse Specialist stressed, “Every patient, and by extension every cancer patient, deserves to be taken care of by a special nurse. There is a need for us to realize cancer nursing as a specialty.” The conversation formed part of the broadcast’s ongoing Changing Narratives series, which highlights Ghanaians who are reshaping the national story through bold and impactful work. The award-winning specialist used the platform to highlight the emotional weight many nurses carry in silence. “Sometimes you see yourself in your patient,” she said. “Depending on the state they come in, it can be emotionally draining. You go home carrying what they are going through.” As an Oncology Nurse Specialist, she stated that her Christian faith is key to how she copes and provides comfort. “Sometimes a patient will ask, ‘Will I survive?’ and because both of us are Christians, I’ll tell them, ‘God will do it.’ I’ve found myself praying for patients. Faith is what keeps me going.” She also shared the core qualities that drive her work and what she believes every great nurse must have: compassion, skill, and faith. “Compassion gives you the drive. Skills give you the ability to deliver. But faith keeps you grounded and strong,” she explained. Reflecting on her journey, the award-winning nurse said her passion for nursing was shaped early by her environment and upbringing. “Growing up, I’d follow family members to the hospital. I watched nurses speak with authority, care, and calm, and people listened. I admired that. I wanted to be that.” Raised by parents of modest means, Mrs. Oyoe Ohene Oti credits her father’s belief in education for helping her pursue her calling. “My dad was a security officer and my mum a trader. He used to say the best thing you can give your children, apart from God, is education. He didn’t get to attend university even after gaining admission, but he made sure all his children did.” She described the award experience as a journey of visibility and purpose. “It’s opened up opportunities to meet amazing people and tell our story. This is what nurses are doing to impact the world.” About Springboard, Your Virtual UniversitySpringboard, Your Virtual University is a weekly motivational and personal development broadcast hosted by Rev. Albert Ocran. It airs every Sunday at 7 PM on Joy FM and 9 PM on Joy News TV. The show provides thought leadership, practical life lessons, and transformational conversations with trailblazers across sectors. The current Changing Narratives series spotlights Ghanaians making bold moves to rewrite the national story through innovation and impact.