Accra: The fourth edition of the OMJ SoccerFest at Ahwerase reaffirmed its status as one of Ghana's most innovative community development festivals by extending its impact beyond football through the highly successful OMJ MasterChef SHS Challenge and the Akuapem Business and Innovation Fair.
According to Ghana Web, the festival, organized under the theme, "From The Pitch To The People: Uniting To Build For Progress," transformed the Ahwerase Town Park into a vibrant center of learning, innovation, entrepreneurship, and skills development, drawing thousands of patrons over the three-day event.
One of the major highlights was the maiden OMJ MasterChef SHS Challenge, an inter-school culinary competition designed to promote technical and vocational education, creativity, teamwork, and entrepreneurship among young people. Five Senior High Schools from the Akuapem area competed in a contest that tested their culinary knowledge, food preparation skills, hygiene practices, presentation techniques, and innovation. Presbyterian Senior High Technical School, Aburi emerged as overall champions, with special awards being distributed among participating schools for various achievements.
Adding another important dimension to the festival was the Akuapem Business and Innovation Fair, which created a unique platform for education, entrepreneurship, innovation, and business networking. The exhibition attracted participation from more than 21 Basic and Senior High Schools, showcasing innovative projects and solutions developed by students and teachers. Businesses and entrepreneurs also displayed their products and services, interacting directly with thousands of visitors, providing them with opportunities to market their brands and establish strategic partnerships.
Throughout the exhibition grounds, visitors experienced demonstrations in various sectors, reflecting the diversity and entrepreneurial potential within the Akuapem area. The Business and Innovation Fair also encouraged collaboration between educational institutions and industry, reinforcing the importance of linking classroom learning with practical application and job creation.