Presidential Pitch winners commend Akufo-Addo for empowering Ghanaian youth

Winners of the 5th Edition of the Presidential Pitch have praised the president for the initiative, which aims to empower young entrepreneurs.

Namgwinaa Samuel emerged victorious in the Presidential Pitch – Season 5, winning over hearts with his innovative Smart Switch System.

This innovation allows for automatic energy consumption control and remote task execution, while also serving as a security-controlled communication system. His success was recognized with the prestigious Dr. John Kumah Prize for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, presented by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.

Samuel's journey to this significant achievement was challenging. As one of the top 10 finalists in the competition, he stood out among over 300 applicants from various fields, all competing for the coveted GH¢250,000 prize.

The Presidential Pitch provided these emerging leaders, including Samuel, with a platform to showcase their groundbreaking ideas.

According to the beneficiaries, the initiative is a testament to the President's dedication to promoting entrepreneurship and innovation.

In a brief ceremony at the Office of the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme (NEIP) to distribute certificates and officially hand out cash awards, the Chief Executive Officer of NEIP, Kofi Ofosu Nkansah, explained that The Presidential Pitch has become a driving force for youth entrepreneurship in Ghana, focusing on empowering young entrepreneurs to bring their ideas to life.

"Since its establishment in 2017, NEIP has supported over 250,000 beneficiaries with business development assistance, provided starter packs to 35,000 businesses, and secured funding for 15,000 entrepreneurs, leading to the creation of over 100,000 jobs," Mr. Ofosu Nkansah revealed.

In total, thirty-five (35) winners received cash prizes ranging from 30,000 to 250,000 Ghana cedis, along with a certificate of participation. They will also benefit from ongoing business advisory services and mentoring from partner business incubation and acceleration hubs in their respective areas of operation.