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UPSA Enterprise and Innovation Centre explores strategic partnerships on student-enabled start-ups support mechanisms with EKA University of Applied Sciences, Latvia

The University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), through its Enterprise and Innovation Centre (UEIC), had the honour of hosting a delegation from EKA University of Applied Sciences on Monday, 23 February 2026.

The visit formed part of ongoing efforts to deepen international collaboration and explore areas of mutual interest between the two institutions, particularly in entrepreneurship development, innovation, circular economy, and social enterprise.

During the engagement at the UEIC, the delegation was taken through an overview of the Centre’s mandate, strategic objectives, and flagship programmes. Established to bridge the gap between academic learning and enterprise creation, the UEIC serves as UPSA’s hub for entrepreneurship training, start-up incubation, mentorship, and venture support.

The Centre highlighted its structured approach to nurturing student-led businesses through ideation programmes, boot camps, incubation pathways, and access to mentorship and funding opportunities.

Emphasis was placed on UEIC’s commitment to developing innovative, impact-driven ventures that address Ghana’s socio-economic needs while positioning students to compete in the global marketplace.

Speaking during the engagement, the Director of the Enterprise and Innovation Centre, Peter Kwasi Kodjie, underscored the importance of strategic global partnerships in strengthening entrepreneurship ecosystems.

“At UEIC, we believe entrepreneurship must be both innovative and responsible. Our mission is to equip students not only to build profitable ventures but to create enterprises that solve real societal challenges. Collaborations such as these open pathways for knowledge exchanges and global exposure, which are critical in shaping the next generation of transformative entrepreneurs.”

The visiting delegation from EKA University of Applied Sciences, which is recognised for its work in Circular Economy and Social Entrepreneurship, also shared insights into its academic and applied research initiatives in sustainability and socially responsible enterprise development.

Director of the Master’s Programme in Circular Economy and Social Entrepreneurship at EKA University of Applied Sciences, Edgars Čerkovskis, expressed enthusiasm about the engagement and the prospects for cooperation.

“We are impressed by the structured approach UPSA has taken in building a dynamic entrepreneurship ecosystem. There is strong alignment between our focus on circular economy and social entrepreneurship and the innovation-driven initiatives of UEIC.

We see significant opportunities to collaborate in enterprise development, start-up incubation, and joint innovation initiatives that empower young entrepreneurs to build sustainable and impact-driven ventures across Europe and Africa. “

The visit concluded with a guided tour of the Centre’s facilities and an interactive session that reinforced the shared commitment of both institutions to innovation, sustainable development, and strategic entrepreneurial collaborations.

UPSA remains committed to building strategic global partnerships that enhance its entrepreneurial ecosystem and provide students with meaningful opportunities for cross-border learning and collaboration.

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