Virtual University

African Architecture Must Blend Tradition and Innovation, Says Dr. Kuukuwa Manful

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Dr. Kuukuwa Manful, Assistant Professor of Architecture at the University of Michigan, has urged Africans to rethink their approach to building by integrating traditional methods with modern materials and technology. According to her, creating sustainable and culturally meaningful spaces requires a balance between professional expertise and community knowledge. Speaking on Springboard, Your Virtual University with Rev. Albert Ocran, as part of the ongoing Thinkathon: The Power of Ideas to Shape Society series, Dr. Manful encouraged citizens and professionals alike to reconsider how buildings are designed and maintained. “More of us should be talking to architects before we start our building projects. Listen to your architects, listen to your professionals. They have good, research-based ideas,” she said. “It’s a bit of a problem here that building is very client-driven. Sometimes the architect has no choice but to go along with it. But listen to them.” Drawing lessons from history, Dr. Manful noted that traditional earth buildings were communally maintained after each rainy season, strengthening community bonds. “Even though we may not return to that fully, our concrete buildings still lack proper maintenance,” she added. She also expressed concern about the disappearance of courtyards in modern architecture. “Courtyards are semi-indoor, outdoor spaces that regulate temperature, provide social spaces, and connect people. They are disappearing from our architecture,” she observed. Drawing on her practical work, Dr. Manful emphasized community interventions such as playgrounds, reading nooks, housing consultations, and advocacy for affordable housing. “Affordable housing in our cities will lead to freedom—freedom to experiment for young people, comfort for older people, and a foundation for solving many urban challenges,” she said. 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 on Springboardzone (YouTube) and Joy FM, and at 9 PM on Joy News TV. The ongoing Thinkathon series convenes leading thinkers and professionals from diverse fields to explore how ideas can shape society. By Faustina Yeboah

Edwuma

We Built Riohs College to Give Practical Fashion Training to People – Richard Ohene Sika

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Founder of Riohs College of Design, Richard Ohene Sika, says he established the institution to provide hands-on fashion training at a time when Ghana lacked short, practical programs in the field. “There was no official fashion institution doing anything shorter than a one-year program, and many people simply wanted to learn how to sew,” he explained. “That’s why I set up Riohs College, to focus on practicality and teach people how to sew.” Mr. Ohene Sika made these remarks on Ghana Grows Edwuma, hosted by Araba Koomson. The episode explored how Riohs College of Design has created opportunities for young people to turn their creative talents into professional careers. He outlined the institution’s major programs, including clothing and construction, 3D digital fashion, menswear, bridal design, and a new comprehensive fashion design option of one to three years. “From illustration to final sewing, everything is practical from day one. We are student-focused, and it is also value for money,” he said. According to him, what makes Riohs stand out is its lifelong support for graduates. “We have an acronym, LEARN. It’s a lifelong learning program. Even ten years after school you can always come back. We have an open studio policy where you can produce or get any form of help you need.” Mr. Ohene Sika also highlighted the institution’s facilities, including digital and design studios, a library, and a conducive classroom environment. He added that creating a lively and creative space motivates students to excel. Proudly listing alumni such as Elikem the Tailor, Sarah the Dressmaker, Zaki, and several others who have built thriving brands in Ghana and abroad, he said, “Sometimes I see a beautiful brand and later discover it belongs to one of our old students. That gives me so much joy.” About Ghana Grows EdwumaGhana 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

Virtual University

17 Years On, Springboard Still Graduates a Nation of Doers

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Springboard marks its 17th year with Thinkathon, a seven-week ideas series inviting Ghanaians to think boldly, act responsibly, and build a culture of integrity. Seventeen years ago, a simple on-air conversation at Joy FM became a movement. Springboard, Your Virtual University, hosted by Rev. Albert Ocran, has grown into one of Ghana’s most trusted platforms for thought leadership and practical capacity building. Reflecting on the journey, Rev. Ocran said “This broadcast was born on the evening of August 4, 2008, when Comfort and I sat in the studios of Joy FM to discuss building a good society. Seventeen years later, it is remarkable to reflect on how far we have comewith the broadcast, the number of platforms it now serves, and the millions of lives it has positively impacted. To God alone be the glory. We thank all our sponsors, stakeholders, listeners, and viewers. You make Springboard, the Virtual University.” Across the years, Springboard has hosted some of the nation’s most influential voices, including Pastor Mensa Otabil, Archbishop Palmer-Buckle, Dr. Patrick Awuah, Bernard Avle, Kwami Sefa Kayi, Azumah Nelson, and Anita Erskine, sharing ideas that shape mindsets and inspire action in business, governance, academia, sports, and faith. The impact is echoed by national figures. Actor Adjetey Anang notes, “What Springboard Virtual University gives you is social skills. It helps you set yourself apart and be street-smart.” Veteran stateswoman Joyce Aryee calls the programme “relevant” and “timely.” And Professor Pikay Richardson urges young people to tune in, emphasizing Springboard’s role in democratizing knowledge: “In the knowledge economy, knowledge is power…this is one programme where you can actually get knowledge, virtually for free.” To mark the anniversary, Springboard has launched Thinkathon, a seven-week series convening experts to test bold ideas for national progress. For nearly two decades, Springboard has functioned as a “national classroom,” translating insight into action for listeners across generations. It airs every Sunday at 7:00 p.m. on Joy FM and Springboard Zone (YouTube), and at 9:00 p.m. on Joy News TV. With Thinkathon, Springboard widens the conversation, equipping Ghanaians with ideas, practical guidance, and the motivation to lead in their communities and workplaces.

Virtual University

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

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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

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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

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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.

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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

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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?

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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

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 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