KNUST veterinary school launches ‘Vetpreneurs’ drive to push students into agribusiness
The School of Veterinary Medicine at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi (KNUST), in partnership with Farm Alert, has launched a Campus Vetpreneurs Programme to equip veterinary students and professionals with entrepreneurial skills in the veterinary and agricultural sectors.
Dean of the School of Veterinary Medicine, Prof. Benjamin Obukowho Emikpe, said veterinarians must adopt an entrepreneurial mindset to ensure the profession becomes financially sustainable.
“A veterinarian must be wealthy, must be innovative, and must not be dependent,” he said, urging students to move beyond traditional academic and clinical roles.
He encouraged students to recognise their value and apply their training creatively. “The day you know your worth, and you know how innovative you have been trained to be, then you can easily come through and do meaningful work,” he added.
Provost of the College of Health Sciences, Prof. Christian Agyare, said current economic conditions require graduates to look beyond public-sector employment and consider entrepreneurship as a viable path.
He highlighted the role of mentorship, collaboration and professional networks in shaping student success, adding that the university is committed to producing graduates capable of creating their own opportunities.
“In KNUST, we don’t expect our students to join the unemployed graduate association because we train and empower you,” he said.
Dr. Boris Baidoo, Chief Executive Officer of Boris B Farms and Veterinary Supplies Ghana Ltd, shared his experience of building a business from a small base, urging students not to let their circumstances limit their ambitions.
“This place will not determine your future because you have had a better, solid foundation that you can build upon,” he said.
Dr. Puspa Ramloo, Managing Director of House of Pluto, called for a shift in veterinary practice across Africa, advocating the integration of business and entrepreneurial training into academic curricula.
“We cannot make you successful. The success is in your hand,” she said, urging students to pursue purpose-driven work and maintain integrity.
“Find your purpose. Where your focus goes, energy flows, and results show,” she added.
Founder and CEO of Farm Alert, Dr. Kayode Femi, encouraged students to cultivate curiosity and courage.
“Some people, when they fly, ask questions. How does a plane fly? It’s by questioning things that you are able to intercept the learning journey and embody it,” he said.
He urged students to prioritise innovation and value creation over academic grades.
“The little you know with courage is bigger and better than the much you know with fear in your heart,” he added.
