Ghana Grows

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

Virtual University

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

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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

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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.

Hangout

Springboard Hangout Holds Second Edition of Fireside Reflections in Tamale

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The second edition of Fireside Reflections, a special broadcast under the Springboard Hangout series, was held in Tamale with Comfort Ocran as host. Set in an open-air community setting, the episode brought together a group of energetic young men and women to reflect on their journeys in agriculture, agribusiness, ATVET, and life-changing impact stories through the Ghana Grows program. This edition, which formed part of the ongoing Tamale Series, was built around storytelling, drumming, dancing, and open conversation, all by the fireside. It brought together Ghana Grows Youth Ambassadors, Girls Club members, and other young beneficiaries of the Ghana Grows initiative to share how the program is helping shift their mindset about agriculture and unlocking real opportunities in agribusiness. Ghana Grows is a youth empowerment program by the Mastercard Foundation in partnership with the Springboard Road Show Foundation. It focuses on preparing young Ghanaians for success in agriculture, agribusiness, and Agricultural Technical and Vocational Education and Training (ATVET). Through community engagement and hands-on learning, the program is equipping a new generation to see farming as a business and a viable career path. Participants shared how Ghana Grows has helped them better understand the agricultural value chain and take bold steps, including joining Ghana Grows Empower360, an initiative that focuses on training young women and persons with disabilities in skills like shoemaking, soap production, resin art, and more, with participants receiving starter packs to begin their businesses. Abdul Fatou, who serves as a Ghana Grows Ambassador and works in social media communication, reflected on how the program reshaped his thinking: “After I studied more about the Ghana Grows program, I realized that it’s not just agriculture. Agric is a business. Being a farmer isn’t just about going to the farm. There’s so much you can do. What motivated me most was realizing how many rich and powerful people are actually farmers, even though most youth think farming is only for the poor. As a media person, I decided we need to let the world know the truth about farming and agribusiness. That’s what I’ve been doing through Ghana Grows. I’ve actually started farming myself. The program connected me with others I could share ideas with.” The night ended with cultural performances from the local community, a celebration of identity, purpose, and the bold dreams of Northern Ghana’s rising youth. About Springboard Hangout Springboard Hangout is a funducative, youth-centered show hosted by Comfort Ocran. It features inspiring stories, practical skills, and real-life experiences to educate, entertain, and equip the next generation.

News

Ghana Grows High School Next Level Tour Transforms Lives at Cape Coast School for the Deaf and Blind

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The Ghana Grows High School Next Level Tour continues to make a profound impact on young lives, with its recent stop at the Cape Coast School for the Deaf and Blind delivering not just knowledge and inspiration but also a life-changing financial breakthrough for one student. This year’s edition of the tour is dedicated to special schools and institutions for persons with disabilities, creating opportunities in agriculture and agribusiness while transforming lives in powerful and unexpected ways. A standout moment from the event was the Wow Moment segment, where students are recognized for their engagement, enthusiasm, and outstanding participation. In a particularly moving instance, a student named Callistus was awarded a cash prize, just when he was struggling to pay his school fees. “I didn’t know how I was going to pay my fees, and today, this happened. I am so grateful to the organizers for coming here, not just to teach us but to change lives. This means everything to me,” Callistus expressed emotionally. His story exemplifies the transformative power of the High School Next Level Disability Inclusion program, which not only broadens young minds to opportunities in agriculture but also meets critical needs in impactful ways. Comfort Ocran, Executive Director of the Springboard Road Show Foundation, highlighted the deeper impact of the initiative “Every time we visit a school, we see young people whose dreams are just waiting to be ignited. Today, beyond educating and inspiring, we were able to make a direct impact on a student’s life.” With each stop, the Ghana Grows High School Next Level Tour is changing perceptions, opening doors, and making a tangible difference. So far, the team has visited Koforidua School for the Deaf, Kibi School for the Deaf, Bechem School for the Deaf, Takoradi Special Vocational School, and Twin City Special School. Additionally, the tour has seen the foundation visit Cape Coast School for the Deaf and Blind, Volta School for the Deaf and Blind and Gbi Special School. About Ghana Grows The Ghana Grows programme is an initiative of the Mastercard Foundation, led by the Springboard Road Show Foundation. Lyme Haus serves as a sub-implementing partner, alongside key technical collaborators, including, Axis Human Capital, Meraki Arts Africa, Light for the World, Ghana Psychological Association (GPA), Young & Vibe, Federation of Associations of Ghanaian Exporters (FAGE), Ghana National Tailors and Dressmakers Association (GNTDA), Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), Ghana Hairdressers and Beauticians Association (GHABA) Together, these partners are driving meaningful change and creating new opportunities for young people across Ghana.

News

Ghana Grows High School Next Level Tour Heads to Cape Coast School for the Deaf and Blind!

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The High School Next Level tour is in full swing, and excitement continues to build as the team makes its way to the Cape Coast School for the Deaf and Blind on Friday, March 28. So far, the tour has delivered inspiring and transformational experiences at the Koforidua School for the Deaf and the Bechem School for the Deaf, where students are engaged in interactive learning, hands-on activities, and motivational sessions designed to expose them to endless opportunities in agriculture and agribusiness. This year’s edition of High School Next Level, an initiative of Ghana Grows, led by the Mastercard Foundation in partnership with the Springboard Road Show Foundation is dedicated to special schools and institutions for persons with disabilities. The goal is to ensure that every young person, regardless of ability, has access to the knowledge, skills, and resources needed to thrive in agriculture and ATVET (Agricultural Technical and Vocational Education and Training). As the High School Next Level team heads to the Cape Coast School for the Deaf and Blind, students can expect a life-transforming experience featuring engaging presentations on career opportunities in agriculture, inspirational mentorship sessions with resource persons, and exciting activities designed to challenge perceptions and inspire change. Joining the tour as a resource person, Michael Owusu Asare, Disability Inclusion Specialist and Founder of No Limit Consult, will continue to motivate and empower students, emphasizing that disability is not a limitation to success in agriculture and beyond. Speaking on the impact of the initiative, Comfort Ocran, Executive Director of the Springboard Road Show Foundation, shared: “The response to this year’s road show has been incredible. It is always awe-inspiring to see students actively listening and participating in the program. Their enthusiasm propels us to keep doing what we are doing. This program is all about empowerment, inclusion, and creating opportunities for young people to see the possibilities in agriculture. We look forward to an amazing experience at the Cape Coast School for the Deaf and Blind and beyond!” The countdown to Friday, March 28, has begun, and the Cape Coast School for the Deaf and Blind is ready to experience the excitement, learning, and inspiration that the Ghana Grows High School Next Level tour brings. About Ghana Grows The Ghana Grows program is an initiative of the Mastercard Foundation, led by the Springboard Road Show Foundation. Lyme Haus serves as a sub-implementing partner, alongside key technical collaborators, including Axis Human Capital, Meraki Arts Africa, Light for the World, the Ghana Psychological Association (GPA), Young & Vibe, the Federation of Associations of Ghanaian Exporters (FAGE), the Ghana National Tailors and Dressmakers Association (GNTDA), the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), and the Ghana Hairdressers and Beauticians Association (GHABA).

News

Ghana Grows High School Next Level Kicks Off with an Unforgettable Experience at Koforidua School for the Deaf!

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The Ghana Grows High School Next Level tour has officially begun with an unparalleled experience for students at Koforidua School for the Deaf on Friday, March 14. This year’s edition is particularly special as it is dedicated to special schools and institutions for persons with disabilities, ensuring that every young mind, regardless of ability, is empowered with knowledge and opportunities in agriculture and its extended value chain. This intervention, under the Ghana Grows Program, is an initiative of the Mastercard Foundation in partnership with the Springboard Road Show Foundation. Over the years, the High School Next Level has become one of the most anticipated events for high school students, providing hands-on experiences and inspiring stories to help young people see the vast opportunities in agriculture and ATVET (Agricultural Technical and Vocational Education and Training). Following the remarkable success of previous editions, the 2025 edition is prioritizing inclusivity and ensuring that no one is left behind. The journey began in the Eastern Region, with Koforidua School for the Deaf hosting Kibi School for the Deaf and setting the stage for an insightful and impactful experience. Speaking at the event, Comfort Ocran, Executive Director of the Springboard Road Show Foundation, emphasized the significance of this year’s focus saying, “This year’s edition of High School Next Level is about breaking barriers and creating a future where every young person, regardless of ability, has access to opportunities in agriculture. By reaching out to special schools, we are intentional about inclusivity and ensuring that no one is left behind in the journey of economic empowerment.” Joining the tour as a resource person to motivate students, Michael Owusu Asare, a disability inclusion specialist and founder of No Limit Consult, stressed the importance of inclusive participation in the agricultural sector. He said, “Agriculture is a game-changer in Ghana’s economy, and young people are at the heart of its transformation. Through this initiative, we are not only equipping students with knowledge but also providing them with the tools and confidence to explore agriculture as a viable and fulfilling career path regardless of any physical challenges they may face.” The 2025 Ghana Grows High School Next Level tour will be held in about ten schools with a clear commitment to reaching special schools and institutions for persons with disabilities. The program is designed to challenge perceptions and ignite aspirations to consider agriculture as a career path. From Akropong to Accra, the tour will continue bringing practical training, insightful presentations, and entertainment to students across the country. With more destinations ahead, the excitement is just beginning! About Ghana Grows The Ghana Grows Program is an initiative of the Mastercard Foundation, implemented by a consortium led by the Springboard Road Show Foundation. Lyme Haus serves as a sub-implementing partner, alongside other key technical collaborators, including Axis Human Capital, Meraki Arts Africa, Ghana Federation of the Disabled (GFD), Ghana Psychological Association (GPA), Young & Vibe, the Federation of Associations of Ghanaian Exporters (FAGE), Ghana National Tailors and Dressmakers Association (GNTDA), Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), and GHABA.

Uncategorized

Ghana Grows Partners with GHABA to Empower Hairdressers

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The Springboard Road Show Foundation, through its flagship Ghana Grows Program, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Ghana Hairdressers and Beauticians Association (GHABA) to provide essential skills training, business development support, and career advancement opportunities for hairdressers and beauticians across Ghana. This initiative is part of the broader Ghana Grows Program, a collaboration between the Mastercard Foundation and Springboard Road Show Foundation, aimed at supporting young people, particularly young women, men and persons with disabilities between the ages of 15 to 35 years, to secure viable and sustainable employment in various vocational sectors, including the beauty and hairdressing industry. Speaking at the signing ceremony, Comfort Ocran, Executive Director of the Springboard Road Show Foundation, highlighted the importance of the initiative: “Through Ghana Grows, we are committed to empowering young people with not just technical expertise but also business and entrepreneurial skills. This partnership with GHABA is an opportunity to extend our impact in the vocational sector and ensure that hairdressers and beauticians have the necessary tools to succeed in today’s evolving market.” As part of the agreement, GHABA members will gain access to training programs, mentorship sessions, and personal and career development resources. Additionally, the partnership will provide psychosocial support, financial literacy training, and digital marketing skills to enable hairdressers and beauticians to modernize their businesses and remain competitive. Tina Offei Yirenkyi, National President of GHABA, lauded the collaboration, stating: “We are excited to partner with Ghana Grows to help our members enhance their craft and expand their opportunities. This initiative will be transformational for many in our industry.” The Ghana Grows Program is dedicated to equipping young people with essential skills for career growth. It continues to drive economic empowerment and skills development across various industries, ensuring that young Ghanaians have the tools they need to build sustainable careers.