Accra:The University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA) has announced a strategic plan to locally produce approximately 30% of the components used in assembling its laptops within the next three years. This initiative was unveiled by Professor John Kwaku Mensah Mawutor, Vice-Chancellor of UPSA, during the launch of the university's maiden Laptop Assembly Plant in Accra.
According to Ghana News Agency, Professor Mawutor highlighted that this effort is part of UPSA's broader digital transformation agenda. The agenda aims to commercialize knowledge, enhance local manufacturing capacity, and create opportunities for young individuals within the technology value chain. The assembly plant has been established in collaboration with Mind Dey Talent and IT Solutions Limited, along with technical expertise from a Chinese partner.
The Vice-Chancellor emphasized that the plant will provide students with hands-on experience in laptop assembly, repairs, and other technology-related activities. This initiative is expected to bridge the gap between academic training and practical industry experience, equipping students with essential technical skills for assembling, maintaining, and eventually developing technological products locally.
Prof. Mawutor also stated that the plant exemplifies how universities can contribute to national development priorities, such as digital transformation and the Government's 24-hour economy policy, by linking education with production and industry. He stressed the importance of sustained collaboration among the government, universities, and industry to fully realize the initiative's potential.
The Vice-Chancellor called upon public institutions, businesses, and financial partners to support UPSA in skills development and the adoption of locally assembled devices that meet quality and performance standards. Such partnerships are expected to strengthen the plant's operations and create pathways from student training to employment and entrepreneurship.
Dr. Harry Lawson Kwaku Agbanu, Chairman of the UPSA Governing Council, advised the plant's management to operate it as a sustainable enterprise that focuses on quality, affordability, and customer satisfaction. He noted that its long-term success would rely on meeting market needs while providing practical training opportunities for students.
Mr. Jimmy Wilson Owusu, Acting CEO of Mind Dey Talent and IT Solutions Limited, shared that his experiences in China exposed him to technology markets and manufacturing centers where young people acquire practical skills to build and improve technological products. These experiences inspired him to create similar opportunities for young individuals in Ghana.