UNIDO-WACOMP Collaborates with KNUST for a Transformative Food Science Outreach Program
In a bid to foster innovation and provide students with an in-depth understanding of the dynamic food business sector, the Department of Food Science and Technology at the College of Science, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), organized a groundbreaking outreach program in collaboration with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization's West Africa Competitiveness Program (UNIDO-WACOMP). The event, which took place on the 3rd of August 2023, was held at the prestigious Allotey Auditorium within the Aboagye Menyeh Complex.
The central theme of the outreach program revolved around the exploration of opportunities within the food business sector, with a particular focus on the existing clusters under the UNIDO-WACOMP initiative. The program aimed to provide students and participants with valuable insights into the various facets of the food industry, from entrepreneurship opportunities to global quality standards and the effective utilization of social media for self-promotion.
Distinguished presenters were invited to share their expertise and knowledge with the eager audience. Mr. Joseph Yeboah, a representative from UNIDO-WACOMP, delved into the crucial topic of "Cluster Networks and Agribusiness Entrepreneurship Opportunities." His presentation shed light on the significance of collaboration within clusters and highlighted the myriad opportunities available for aspiring entrepreneurs in the agribusiness sector.
Mr. Frederick Owusu Gyamera, a Quality System Management Expert at UNIDO, delivered two insightful presentations. The first, titled "Quality Assurance versus Quality Control in Industry," emphasized the essential distinction between quality assurance and quality control practices in the food industry. The second presentation, "Global Food Quality and Safety Standards," provided a comprehensive overview of the international standards and regulations that govern food quality and safety. Mr. Gyamera's presentations underscored the importance of maintaining the highest standards in the production and distribution of food products.
Mrs. Linda Gyala, a seasoned professional from UNIDO, shared her expertise on a modern and crucial aspect of the food industry – leveraging social media for self-promotion. In her presentation, "Maximizing Social Media to Promote Yourself," Mrs. Gyala enlightened the attendees on the power of social media platforms in enhancing one's personal brand within the food business sector. Her insights provided attendees with practical strategies to effectively utilize social media as a tool for networking, branding, and career advancement.
The outreach program proved to be a resounding success, providing students and participants with a wealth of knowledge and actionable insights. The collaboration between UNIDO-WACOMP and KNUST highlighted the significance of bridging academia and industry, ensuring that students are equipped with the practical skills and understanding needed to excel in the competitive food business sector.
