The PartnerAfrika Projekt marked the successful conclusion of its first phase with a closing ceremony held on February 4, 2025, at the RWESCK Auditorium, KNUST. This initiative, a collaboration between Unternehmer Baden-Württemberg (UBW), the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI), and the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), was implemented under the Special Initiative on Training and Job Creation of the German government.
Prof. Jerry John Kponyo, Principal Investigator, PartnerAfrika Projekt KNUST, in his opening remarks, reflected on the project's journey since its inception in 2022.
“The PartnerAfrika project was designed to equip students with sustainability-focused training before they embark on their internships. Recognising the importance of soft skills, we incorporated courses on leadership, self-branding, team building, and more. Students then underwent an assessment, and only those who passed were placed with industry partners within AGI.”
He mentioned that the structured approach ensured that students were well-prepared for industry engagement, and following their internship, they submitted reports on their experiences. They recommended sustainability measures for improving energy efficiency, occupational health, and workplace safety. The final stage involved defending their reports before a panel, after which they were awarded certificates.
Prof. Kponyo highlighted the Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) set for the project and revealed that nearly all targets had been exceeded.
“Even though the project's first phase has ended, we are optimistic about gaining the Provost’s and College Board’s support to institutionalise the training of our students before their internship. This will ensure that every student maximises the benefits of their industry exposure, preparing them to become highly skilled professionals.”
He appreciated all project partners, acknowledging their dedication and contributions.
Prof. Kwabena Biritwum Nyarko, Provost of the College of Engineering, reaffirmed the College’s commitment to enhancing academia-industry linkages.
“Training engineers for the job market and entrepreneurship is at the core of what we do. I commend AGI for offering internship opportunities and request more industry partnerships to scale up this initiative. The success of this first phase demonstrates more potential for expansion.”
He announced that the e-learning centre would be engaged to provide students with access to pre-internship training materials.
Mr. Philipp Poferl, International Project Lead, Arqum, recalled how students were eager to learn about energy efficiency and environmental sustainability at the start of the project.
“It is fulfilling to see how this initiative has created opportunities for students and industries alike. The impact stories shared by students demonstrate how this project has helped bridge the knowledge gap and foster innovation. The collaboration with AGI allowed students to apply their skills, making meaningful contributions to their companies’ sustainability goals.”
Mr. Kwasi Nyamekye, AGI Regional Chairman (Ashanti, Bono, Bono East & Ahafo), indicated that the project’s impact exceeds its three-year duration.
“One of the biggest successes of this project is that it has been designed to be sustainable beyond external support. The strengthened relationship between AGI and KNUST is evident, and AGI remains committed to providing internship placements.”
He revealed that his company, Vester Oil Mills, hosted 15 interns in 2024 and retained two as full-time employees, a testament to the quality of students trained under the project.
“Through this initiative, we have gained invaluable knowledge on sustainability, and the exchange of ideas has enriched our businesses. The peer-learning process within AGI sector clusters has also been highly beneficial.”
The event celebrated the achievements of students, with Cohort 3 receiving certificates. The top three students, Miss Edna Atisu, Mr. Nicholas Okoye and Miss Veronica Acquatey Mensah, were recognised for their outstanding performance.
To express appreciation to the German partners, KNUST-branded souvenirs were presented as a token of gratitude for their unwavering support.
In his closing remarks, Ing. Obeng Okofo Dartey, Project Manager, PartnerAfrika Projekt KNUST, reiterated that the project’s legacy would continue through KNUST’s institutional frameworks.
“We are committed to continuing the training of students for internships and scaling up project activities within the College and across KNUST. The impact of this initiative will be felt for years to come.”
As the first phase comes to a successful close, stakeholders remain optimistic that this project will serve as a blueprint for future academia-industry collaborations, creating a pipeline of skilled professionals ready to drive sustainable industrial growth in Ghana and beyond.
