In a bid to foster collaboration for youth empowerment and innovation, Innovators Up, an organization dedicated to reducing youth unemployment by supporting grassroots innovation, paid a courtesy call on the newly appointed Western Regional Minister, Mr. Joshua Nelson. The engagement, which took place on March 3, 2025, at 4:00 PM at the regional coordinating council, sought to explore opportunities for partnership to advance the socio-economic development of the region.
The delegation was led by Mr. Benjamin Agyin Turkson, with facilitation by Mr. Amponsah Edwin, the Regional Director of the National Youth Authority in the Western Region. The minister and his team warmly welcomed the delegation, underscoring the significance of the discussion.
Speaking on behalf of Innovators Up, Business Development Manager Mr. Richmond Anane-Simon congratulated Mr. Nelson on his appointment. He highlighted the organization’s commitment to equipping young innovators with access to markets, funding, mentorship, and co-working spaces to enhance their entrepreneurial ventures.
Mr. Benjamin Agyin Turkson who is the Director of Programmes elaborated on Innovators Up’s impact, citing its partnership with the flagship initiative, the Young Africa Innovates (YAI) Programme, which has successfully empowered over 30 young innovators in the Western Region. Through this program, participants have developed minimum viable products (MVPs) and tested them in the market to gather feedback and validate their business assumptions.
Additionally, Mr. Turkson unveiled upcoming skill development programs focused on Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and software development, aimed at equipping the youth with industry-relevant skills.
In response, Hon. Joshua Nelson acknowledged the pressing issue of youth unemployment, describing it as a critical challenge that demands immediate and innovative interventions. He expressed enthusiasm about the potential collaboration with Innovators Up, emphasizing the need for all institutions working on youth development to unite under a common framework for greater impact.
The minister reaffirmed his unwavering support for Innovators Up, commending the organization for its dedication to fostering innovation and youth empowerment in the region. He pledged to work closely with stakeholders to create sustainable opportunities that will enhance the livelihoods of young people in the Western Region.
The meeting concluded on a positive note, with both parties agreeing to further engagements aimed at advancing youth development and innovation in the region.
