The Minister of Communications and Digitalisation, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, has launched the ‘Ursula Foundation’ to address key issues such as youth development, women empowerment, healthcare, education, job creation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable growth, all contributing to the socio-economic development of the Ablekuma West constituency.
Speaking during the launch of the Foundation at Dansoman, she said the Foundation is aimed at providing practical skills and knowledge to the local community, fostering opportunities for personal and professional development. She added that it would offer a range of programmes focused on skill acquisition in various fields such as technology, craftsmanship, and entrepreneurship.
Mrs. Owusu-Ekuful, who is also the Member of Parliament for Ablekuma West, stressed that the Foundation is open to everyone irrespective of political affiliation, with the aim of bridging the skills gap in the constituency and enabling residents to become self-reliant and competitive in the job market.
“This Foundation is for all residents of Ablekuma West, not just for a particular political group. We will support entrepreneurship, education, and mentorship. We cannot do it alone but will partner with various institutions. For example, the New Century Career Training Centre and Ghana Code Club have shown interest in collaborating with us,” she mentioned.
Practical skills
The Minister emphasised the importance of practical skills in today’s rapidly evolving economy. “Our goal with the Ursula Foundation is to create a pathway for the people of Ablekuma West to gain the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in both local and global markets. We are committed to supporting our community and ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to succeed,” she stated.
According to her, the Foundation would collaborate with local and international partners to provide training sessions, workshops, and mentorship programmes. These efforts, she noted, are expected to enhance the employability of the residents and stimulate economic growth within the constituency, and Ghana in general.
Giving back to society
She stated, “Giving back to society is a responsibility I feel deeply, and the Ursula Foundation is my way of contributing to the community that has nurtured me.” She emphasised the importance of taking advantage of and making the most of the opportunities in life.
“Through this Foundation, we aim to reach out to young people who are willing to transform their lives using the tools provided, teaching them that they can achieve anything if they work hard. It doesn’t matter how you start in life; what matters is how you utilize the opportunities and assistance offered to you, and your discipline and hard work,” she added.
“You don’t need a government job to succeed; I’ve always worked in the private sector before my public service stint. From selling charcoal to teaching English in Japan, where I taught housewives aged 45 to 70, I’ve always made the most of the opportunities available to me. I also worked in journalism, had a weekly column, and even traded goods between Ghana and Saudi Arabia… These experiences taught me that hard work and seizing opportunities are crucial for success,” she indicated.
The Minister also emphasised that the Foundation is serious about helping those willing to work hard and transform their lives. “We will be transparent and fair, focusing on one person at a time to make a significant difference. Together, with your support, we can build a community where compassion, opportunity, and justice prevail, one life at a time,” she added.
Appreciation
For his part, the Municipal Chief Executive of Ablekuma West Municipal Assembly, Mr George Cyril Bray, expressed appreciation to the Minister for the initiative.
He indicated: “This Foundation is a beacon of hope for many of us. It opens doors to new opportunities and gives us the tools we need to build a better future.”
The opening of the Foundation was climaxed with fund raising event to support its work. There was also the launch of the flagship U-PUSH, commissioning of volunteer corps and interim team, and musical performances by Amerado and Akwaboah, among other activities.