The University Interdenominational Church (UIC) of the University of Cape Coast has taken a significant step toward equipping its members with employable skills through the Training, Exhibition, Competition, and Support for Livelihoods (TECS4Live) initiative.
This programme, designed to empower church members with entrepreneurial opportunities, culminated in a trade fair held on March 30, 2025, on the UIC premises. The event provided a dynamic platform for showcasing businesses, fostering innovation, and facilitating networking among exhibitors.
Dr. Mrs. Ewoenam Afua Afenyo-Agbe, a key figure in the initiative, explained that the TECS4Live project is structured around training, exhibitions, competitions, and support for livelihoods. Training is offered in both short-term and long-term formats. The short-term training focuses on preparing exhibitors to effectively present their products, while the long-term training equips church members with practical skills in areas such as fruit and vegetable processing, online business management, and home gardening.
The exhibition component allows participants to showcase their products and engage with potential investors, financial institutions, and other stakeholders. It serves as an annual platform for members to present their entrepreneurial ventures, attracting support and collaboration.
Competitions within the programme encourage participants to develop innovative business plans that address specific challenges. Winning entries receive financial backing and mentorship to turn their ideas into viable businesses, ensuring that entrepreneurship remains a sustainable endeavor for church members.
To further support participants, the initiative offers both financial and non-financial assistance. Non-financial support includes mentoring, coaching, and counseling from experienced entrepreneurs, as well as networking opportunities to connect members with business development resources. Where possible, financial aid is provided in the form of seed capital, assistance with business registration, market research, and product certification.
UIC Chairperson, Mr. Stephen Adu, expressed enthusiasm for the exhibition, emphasizing that the primary goal is to equip unemployed youth with skills that can generate sustainable income. He highlighted the importance of publicizing existing businesses within the congregation, fostering a culture of collaboration and support among church members. Mr. Adu acknowledged the contributions of key individuals, including Prof. Daniel K. Agyapong, Dr. Mrs. Ewoenam Afua Afenyo-Agbe, Madam Georgina Morny, and Mr. Evans Kwame Ofori, for their instrumental roles in bringing the initiative to life.
Rev. Victor Yeboah Gyabaah, a pastor at UIC, described the initiative as a groundbreaking effort that allows members with business ideas or existing ventures to gain visibility, training, and access to a supportive market. He stressed that while the exhibition is free to attend, purchasing products is a tangible way to support the businesses on display.
Recent data on employment in Ghana indicates that a significant portion of the youth population faces challenges in securing jobs. In 2023, approximately 2.5 million individuals aged 15 to 35 were not engaged in employment, education, or training. Given the predominantly youthful demographic of the church, TECS4Live seeks to address these economic hardships by creating opportunities for sustainable livelihoods.
While over 60 participants received training through the initiative, only 40 exhibited their products at the event, as some trainees are still in the early stages of their business development.
The programme aligns with biblical teachings on the importance of combining faith with action. James 2:17 states, “Faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.” TECS4Live embodies this principle by empowering church members to use their skills and talents to improve their livelihoods while serving their communities.
Having successfully launched its maiden edition, UIC envisions making TECS4Live an annual event. As the initiative grows, the question remains: will the youth continue to take advantage of this opportunity? Only time will tell.
