UHAS Confers First-Ever PhD Degrees at 9th Congregation

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December 1, 2024

BY: Daniel Orlando | Volta Online

The University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS) has achieved a historic feat by conferring its first two PhD degrees on Dr. Atubiga Alobit Baba and Dr. Vivian Della Atuwo-Ampoh from the Fred N. Binka School of Public Health and the School of Allied Health Sciences respectively.

This momentous occasion took place during the 9th Congregation ceremony on Saturday, November 30, 2024, at its permanent campus at Sokode-Lokoe near Ho.

UHAS, a premier university dedicated to training health professionals in Ghana, also graduated its first cohorts of the Bachelor of Sports and Exercise Medicine Sciences and the Bachelor of Orthotics and Prosthetics programme. Notably, the Bachelor of Orthotics and Prosthetics programme is the first of its kind in the West African sub-region.

A total of 1,519 students took part in the congregation, graduating from various schools, including the Graduate School, School of Allied Health Sciences, and the Fred Binka School of Public Health.

Justice (rtd) Jones Mawulorm Dotse, Chairman of the UHAS Council, commended the graduates, faculty, and staff for their hard work and dedication. He emphasized UHAS’ vital role in shaping the future of healthcare professionals in Ghana, highlighting the university’s commitment to producing graduates who are academically competent and adaptable to the evolving demands of the healthcare sector.

Vice Chancellor, Prof. Lydia Aziato, highlighted the steady progress being made by the University, while calling for further stakeholder support to advance the delivery of the University’s mandate.

The Chief Executive Officer of the Trust Hospital, Dr. Juliana Ove Ameh, urged the graduates to prioritize quality healthcare as a cornerstone for national development and sustainability. She underscored the critical role healthcare professionals play in transforming Ghana’s healthcare system and contributing to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Source:www.voltaonlinegh.com

Election2024: HTU Students To Lose Certificates if…

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Volta Online

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November 30, 2024

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BY: Lambert Coffie | Volta Online

As Ghana prepares to go to the polls on December 7, 2024, students of Ho Technical University (HTU) have been cautioned against engaging in electoral violence.

According to Prof. Ben Honyenuga, Vice-Chancellor of HTU, such conduct could lead to the withdrawal of their degrees and diplomas by the university.Prof. Honyenuga emphasized that elections should not be seen as a ‘do or die’ affair and urged students to exercise their franchise in a peaceful manner.

He warned that any student found to be involved in electoral violence would face severe consequences, including the potential withdrawal of their certificate.’

As we approach the general elections, I entreat you all to exercise your franchise in a peaceful manner. Do not engage yourselves in any electoral violence. I will not hesitate to recommend to the academic board and council to withdraw our certificate should it be established that, any of our graduates was involved in electoral violence.’

The Vice-Chancellor issued the warning during the 25th Congregation ceremony on Friday, November 29, 2024, where a total of 1,632 students graduated with degrees and higher national diplomas in various disciplines.

Source: www.voltaonlinegh.com

US Ambassador Graces Volta Fair Sports Summit in Ho

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Volta Online

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December 7, 2023

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BY: Daniel Orlando | Voltaonlinegh.com|

H.E. Virginia Palmer, the United States Ambassador to Ghana, has acknowledged the significant contribution of the Volta Region to the development of sports in the country and beyond.

She commended the region for producing brilliant and talented sportsmen and women, who have represented both Ghana and United States of America over the years.

The US Ambassador made these remarks during the Sports Investment Summit and Awards in Ho, as part of her visit to the 6th Edition of the Volta Trade and Investment Fair being held at the Jubilee Park.

She mentioned that the embassy has assigned professional sports liaison officers in the visa section to expedite visa applications for Ghanaians in the sports fraternity.

Ambassador Palmer further stated that the embassy is actively addressing the visa backlog in the system and urged everyone to submit their applications in a timely manner.

“Ghana is the 14th largest sender of students to the USA globally and the second largest sender from sub-Saharan Africa. My visa officers have processed approximately 10,000 appointments over the summer,” she stated.

Mr. Morris Quansah, the former Vice President of the Sports Writers Association (SWAG), highlighted that the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) presents numerous opportunities that the Volta Region should leverage for its full potential development.

Mr. Quansah emphasized the need for the region to nurture young talents in sports, considering that it has produced many of the country’s greatest sportsmen and women. He urged sports journalists in the region to advocate for government support in developing sports infrastructure, which forms the foundation for talent identification and development, creating a vibrant environment for sports to thrive.

Mr. Dela Gadzanku, the Chairman of the Ghana Association of Industries for Eastern, Volta, and Oti, underscored the importance of the sports sector in the development of the Volta Region. He expressed optimism that the 1st sports summit would initiate discussions on sports infrastructure and talent development in the region.

Source: www.voltaonlinegh.com

Ho To Come Alive With ‘Young and Loud’ Festival

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Volta Online

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December 7, 2023

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BY: News Desk | Voltaonlinegh.com |

The Volta Regional capital of Ho is set to come alive as the Young and Loud Festival, scheduled for Saturday, December 16, 2023, announces an electrifying line-up of artists set to take the stage at the Mawuli School Campus.

Patrons would be captivated by the talents of renowned performers including Keeny Ice, Tuf B, Afro Khelly, Keli Yong, and Dzidegh.

According to organisers, the line-up event promises to not only create a vibrant musical atmosphere but also set the tone for a ground breaking event that transcends entertainment – it’s a movement for positive change.

More than just a festival, Young and Loud, spearheaded by the Young and Safe Consortium, is geared towards empowering the youth of Ho to be catalysts for systemic change. The festival stands on pillars of creative advocacy, talent recognition, networking opportunities, a platform for showcasing talent, and career exploration, a media release from the organisers and copied Volta Online, stated.

‘The festival is set to redefine the city’s cultural scene, as the streets of Ho transform into a cultural hub with vibrant street art, immersive installations, and interactive exhibits. It’s not just about celebrating youth creativity but advocating for improved well-being and fostering solutions to societal issues.’

The movement is part of the Young and Safe Project, a three-year initiative addressing crucial aspects of youth life such as participation in city governance, sexual and reproductive health, mental health support, creative self-expression, and digital employment opportunities.

Supported by Fondation Botnar through the Healthy Cities for Adolescents Program, the project is aimed at building an inclusive and supportive community for young people in Ho municipality.

About the Young and Safe Project

The Young and Safe project is a three-year initiative in Ho, Ghana, addressing important issues for youth, including participation in city governance, sexual and reproductive health, mental health support, creative expression, and digital employment opportunities. It involves collaboration between Node Eight, Ho Municipal Assembly, LoveAid Foundation, and Ghana Education Service, with support from Fondation Botnar through the Healthy Cities for Adolescents Program.

Source: www.voltaonlinegh.com

Akatsi South Targets Sweet Potato for Economic Growth

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Volta Online

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December 6, 2023

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Daniel Orlando | Voltaonlinegh.com |

Mr. Daniel Ankrah, the Akatsi South Municipal Development Officer, has called for potential investors to explore the significant opportunities that the municipality provides in the cultivation of sweet potatoes and other agricultural products. The initiative aims to boost the local economy and position the municipality as the leading producer of sweet potatoes in the Volta Region.

Mr. Ankrah made these remarks while speaking to a Volta Online reporter during an exhibition showcasing the products and prospects that the municipality offers to investors.

He highlighted that the municipality currently cultivates approximately 90,000 metric tons of sweet potatoes during both the major and minor seasons. These sweet potatoes are rich in vitamin A and represent an optimal food choice for pregnant and lactating women, as well as children under two years old.

Mr. Ankrah emphasized, “Our sweet potatoes also play a crucial role in preventing stunting and malnutrition among children and adults.”

In addition to sweet potatoes, he mentioned that the municipality ranks as the 5th largest producer of rice in the region.

Furthermore, Mr. Ankrah invited investors through the Volta Trade and Investment platform to consider investing in the abundant clay deposits within the municipality. This investment has the potential to create job opportunities for the local youth, thereby significantly reducing the high unemployment rate in the area.

Source: www.voltaonlinegh.com

Keta Municipal Unveils Lucrative Opportunities in Shallot and Coconut Production

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Volta Online

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December 6, 2023

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Daniel Orlando | Voltaonlinegh.com |

It has emerged that the Keta Municipality, one of the oldest municipalities in the Volta Region, is noted for the cultivation of shallot and sugarcane due to favorable climatic conditions.

The local economy, mainly agrarian, engages the majority of the population in crop farming, livestock keeping, fishing, and other agriculture-related activities and trading.

The municipality is a major vegetable producer in the Volta Region, contributing significantly to the local and national economy.

It is well-known for the cultivation of shallots in large quantities produced in the floodplains along the Keta Lagoons and streams. Maize and cassava are also grown as off-season crops along the littoral and as main season crops in the northern parts of the municipality.

Coconuts are grown in the inland parts of the municipality around Afiadenyigba, Atiavi, Hatorgodo, Atsiame, and Dorveme areas. Sugarcane is also a major crop extensively cultivated in Atiavi and Hatorgodo, used for the production of the local gin, Akpeteshie.

Cowpea is a major crop grown in the northern parts of the municipality around Abor, Weme, and other surrounding towns during the main cropping season. Sweet potato is one of the main crops found all over the municipality.

The Municipal Chief Executive, Emmanuel Gemegah, made the disclosure at the municipality’s exhibition and highlights at the ongoing Volta Trade and Investment Fair in Ho.

Mr. Gemegah said the municipality has positioned itself for potential investors in the areas of agro-based, mining, textiles, and ceramic sectors.

“Aside from agriculture, the municipality offers investment opportunities in agro-based industries, mining, textiles, and ceramics. Moreover, the Keta Municipal Assembly is blessed with long, picturesque sandy beaches, complemented by recognized hospitality facilities like the Aborigines Beach Resort, Villar Amore Hotel, Lagoon View Hotel, and Emancipation Beach Resort.

These attractions significantly contribute to the municipality’s potential for tourism and hospitality.

Source: www.voltaonlinegh.com

North Dayi District Calls for Investors in Kaolin Mining to Boost Local Economy and Job Market

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Volta Online

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December 5, 2023

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Daniel Orlando | Voltaonlinegh.com |

The North Dayi District Assembly has called on potential investors to visit and invest in the district, particularly in the area of kaolin mining to produce in large quantities.

Exploiting kaolin mining, according to the district, will help the ceramic and paint industry, providing jobs and income for the local population.

The main agricultural products from the district are rice, coconut, and mango. Tourist attractions include beach resorts, the crocodile cave, and a 345-step staircase linking Anfoega Azigbe and Anfoega Agata and Agatanyigbe.

Hon. Edmond Kudjoe Attah, the District Chief Executive, speaking with Volta Online, stated that the assembly has established a strong relationship with traditional authorities and other stakeholders to promote peaceful coexistence.

“These collaborative efforts aim to establish an ecosystem of success and increase investor confidence,” he added.

The DCE mentioned that through the Volta Fair, the district is poised for incredible growth, progress, unlocking its full potential, creating jobs, and driving the local economy.

Source: www.voltaonlinegh.com

Horticulture Industry Urged to Keep Proper Records for Access to Financial Support

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Volta Online

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December 5, 2023

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BY: Daniel Orlando | Voltaonlinegh.com |

The Executive Secretary of Green Label Ghana Foundation, Mr. Anthony Tamakloe, has urged players in the horticulture industry to maintain accurate records of operational and financial transactions in order to secure grants and loans from financial institutions.

Mr. Tamakloe emphasized that the key to obtaining loans and grants from any financial institution is through proper record-keeping, which serves as a guide to assess the lender’s eligibility criteria. He made these remarks during a Horticulture workshop held as part of the Volta Trade and Investment, with the theme “Leveraging Horticulture to Access the Africa Continental Free Trade Area.”

The workshop convened farmers’ groups, individuals, and organizations to discuss the opportunities presented by the Africa Continental Free Trade Area. Mr. Tamakloe appealed to all participants to maintain transparency with financial institutions supporting their businesses.

Additionally, he encouraged farmers to seek financial assistance from commercial banks offering moderate interest rates and explore other sources such as USAID – Ghana Trade and Investment and USAID Africa Trade and Investment grants.

Mr. Abdul-Ramakrishna Adama, the Operations Manager of Maphlix Trust Ghana Limited, highlighted the immense export potential of horticultural produce from Ghana to the European Union and other markets. Abdul Razak Adama emphasized the favorable climate conditions in Ghana, facilitating year-round production of fruits, including mangoes, pineapples, and vegetables.

Mr. Adama called for stringent measures to improve transportation, storage facilities, and cold chain management to maintain product freshness during transit.

Mr. Fred Avornyo, Chief Operating Officer of Volta, stated that the horticulture workshop aimed to educate farmers and farmer groups about the prospects in the horticulture industry. He also emphasized the importance of joining horticulture business platforms to facilitate the easy transport of their products into the European market.

Source: www.voltaonlinegh.com

Volta Youth Entrepreneurs Summit Champions Pan-African Collaboration

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Volta Online

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December 3, 2023

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BY: Daniel Orlando | Voltaonlinegh.com|

The second edition of the Volta Youth Entrepreneurs Summit was held in Ho, over the weekend as part of the 6th Volta Trade and Investment Fair 2023. It brought together aspiring entrepreneurs, small business owners, and notable figures in the business community to deliberate on the opportunities and challenges faced by young enterprises in the region.

Addressing the attendees, Ms. Emma Theofelus, Member of Parliament and Deputy Minister of ICT and Technology from Namibia, encouraged young entrepreneurs to cultivate new networks and foster collaboration with like-minded individuals in the business sphere. She emphasised the importance of cooperation over competition, asserting that collective efforts can shape the future of business in the region.

The Deputy Minister highlighted the significant role played by the youth of Africa in answering the generational call, urging them to establish businesses that transcend borders and contribute to the continent’s economic growth.

Ms. Theofelus also revealed the commitment of the Namibian government to partner with young entrepreneurs in sectors such as shea butter, coffee, cocoa, and other agricultural products.

In a special appeal to African leaders, Ms. Theofelus called for a re-evaluation of the continent’s educational curriculum. She advocated for reforms that would shift the focus towards entrepreneurship, aligning with the vision of building a business-centric Africa.

Dr. Archibald Yao Letsa, the Volta Regional Minister and an accomplished entrepreneur, provided valuable insights to the aspiring business leaders. He advised young entrepreneurs to set ambitious yet realistic goals when venturing into business, underlining the pivotal role of entrepreneurship in driving the economic fortunes of the country.

Themed “Bridging Borders: Amplifying Youth Entrepreneurship in the AfCFTA Era,” the 2nd Volta Young Entrepreneurs Summit ended successfully with a renewed commitment to collaboration, entrepreneurship, and the economic empowerment of the youth in the region.

Source: www.voltaonlinegh.com

Ghana Targets Over GHc25.3 Billion Export Revenue by 2029

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Volta Online

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December 3, 2023

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BY: Lambert Coffie | Voltaonlinegh.com|

The Ghana Shippers Authority (GSA) has organized a one-day workshop for exporters in the Volta Region, focusing on strategies to expand the country’s export sector.

At the core of the discussions was the ambitious vision outlined in the National Export Development Strategy (NEDS), aimed at propelling the growth of Non-Traditional Exports (NTEs) from a modest GHS 2.8 billion in 2020 to an impressive GHS 25.3 billion by 2029.

Speaking at the workshop held in Ho on Thursday, 30th November 2023, Mr. Charles Darling Asiedu Sey, the Tema Branch Manager of the GSA, underscored the collaborative effort required to turn the vision into reality. He stressed the need for innovative solutions and a steadfast commitment to creating an environment conducive to international business growth, hinged on structural transformation to position Ghana as a formidable export-led industrialized economy.

To ensure sustainable export shipping practices in Ghana, Mr. Sey highlighted critical areas that demand collaborative attention, such as Customs (GRA) rules, warehousing, forwarding processes, and financial considerations. He also revealed ongoing partnerships with service providers to enhance the quality of shipping services.

“Efforts are underway to review export-related policies, simplify procedures, reduce bureaucracy, and foster a more favorable business environment,” he stated, further emphasising the importance of harnessing the full benefits of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which commenced in January 2021.

“To fully harness the benefits of this agreement, it is essential to empower and strategically position Ghanaian exporters. This necessitates the adoption of a comprehensive approach that addresses the needed policies, regulations, and practices. Such an approach is crucial for unlocking the full economic potential and ensuring successful integration into the broader African trade landscape facilitated by AfCFTA.”

The seminar also featured a presentation by Mr. Paul Kobina Mensah, the CEO of Mass Logistics, on the ‘Planning, to reduce the cost of export shipments’. He shared valuable insights on various strategies for successful export businesses, further contributing to the collective effort to elevate Ghana’s export sector to new heights.

Source: www.voltaonlinegh.com