Academics, industry leaders, policymakers, and entrepreneurs converged at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA) for a two-day international conference centred around financial innovation and entrepreneurship.
The annual global gathering, dubbed “Financial Innovation and Enterprise Conference (FIE2023),” provided the platform for experts around the world to engage in research-based dialogue and knowledge sharing as catalysts for change in the financial and entrepreneurial sectors.
This year’s event was themed “Promoting Sustainable Enterprises in Developing and Emerging Economies.”
Pro Vice Chancellor of UPSA, Professor John K. M. Mawutor, said hosting the conference was a significant milestone for UPSA, as it marked the first time the event has been held outside the United Kingdom.
He stressed that the conference seeks to address how entrepreneurial education, innovative financial systems, optimised business environments, and public-private partnerships can collectively support sustainable enterprise development in regions like Africa.
“This conference symbolises a ground-breaking step in our collective journey towards fostering sustainable enterprises in developing and emerging economies,” Prof. Mawutor said.
“It is [also] a historic moment for UPSA as we lead this initiative on our continent, showcasing the innovative spirit and entrepreneurial potential that Africa has to offer.
“Together with our partners, we are setting a new standard for financial innovation and enterprise, opening doors to endless possibilities and transformative impacts.”
Founder of the FIE Conference, Prof. Javed Hussain, underscored the need to for industry, academia and policymakers to close ranks and work together to promote sustainable enterprises.
He said the economic impact of Micro, Small, and Medium-Sized Enterprises (MSMEs) on global GDP cannot be overemphasised.
He stressed the critical need for developing economies to make deliberate efforts to nurture and grow small businesses.
Deputy Minister of Finance, Abena Osei-Asare, emphasised that building an entrepreneurial economy requires the collective contribution of all stakeholders.
She said the government has put in place the necessary legislative and regulatory framework to support private sector growth while also creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive.
Madam Osei-Asare stressed the need to bridge the gap between traditional financial systems and modern fintech solutions to ensure inclusivity and accessibility for all entrepreneurs.
She commended the management of UPSA for organising the conference, which she said will help build the capacities of industry players.
Other speakers at the conference included Dr Derek Watson, Business School Project Leader at the University of Sunderland, UK, Dr Claran Mac an Bhair, Institute for Small Business and Entrepreneurship (ISBE), Dr Richard Ampofo Boadu, GETFund Administrator, Mrs Elsie Addo Awadzi, Second Deputy Governor of the Bank of Ghana, and Mr Kwame Osei-Prempeh, MD and Group CEO of Ghana Oil Company.
The FIE 2023 Conference was jointly convened by UPSA, Birmingham City University, the University of Sunderland in London, and the Institute for Small Business and Entrepreneurship (ISBE).
