Dr. (Mrs.) Louisa Ansong Satekla, a dentist and public health advocate, has encouraged university students to see their time on campus as a launchpad for enterprise, urging them to pursue business ideas early while remaining grounded in mentorship and academic discipline.
Speaking at the Nyansapo Dialogue Series 2026 at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) Kumasi, Dr. Mrs. Satekla said entrepreneurship does not need to wait until graduation, noting that curiosity, initiative and connections built as a student can shape long-term career paths.
Reflecting on her own journey, she recalled that her appreciation for networking began while campaigning for a friend who contested for Students’ Representative Council (SRC) president, an experience that exposed her to the power of relationships and visibility on campus.
In her second year, Dr. Mrs. Satekla began making shoes and bags using local fabrics, initially for personal use. Interest grew organically.
“It started with me making them and wearing them, and people began asking questions,” she said. “I would tell them I could make some for them.”
What began as a simple idea soon evolved into a small student business. As demand increased, she discovered an entrepreneurial side of herself that surprised even her parents. She went on to employ fellow students, appointing agents across major halls and hostels and operating a sales stand at the Golden Tulip Hostel.
The venture, she said, not only supported her financially during her studies but also enabled her to initiate projects that later developed beyond campus.
“You don’t have to wait four years before you start looking for business ideas,” Dr. Mrs. Satekla told students. “You can start from now.” She cautioned, however, that enterprise should go hand in hand with serious academic work and mentorship.
The dialogue also featured former Diplomat and Council Chair Kwame Saarah Mensah, who traced his KNUST experience through sports, leadership and public service, stressing the enduring value of networks.
“At a certain point in time, it’s not the certificate you’re holding, but whom you know,” he said.
Current SRC President Shakir Is-Haq Waiz echoed the message, attributing his electoral success to authentic relationships built across campus.
“What won us this position was genuine connection,” he said. “We never took any relationship lightly. Every person has something to offer.”
He urged students to broaden their horizons, decentralise their interests, and actively engage within the University’s diverse community, while remaining focused on the fundamental purpose of their education.
The 2026 Nyansapo Dialogue Series is being held under the theme “Redefining Success Through Alumni Experiences for a Smarter Future,” bringing together students and alumni to reflect on entrepreneurship, leadership and the long-term value of networks formed on campus.
Assistant Registrar, Alumni and Advancement Relations Office, Ms. Anita Kuma noted the event is pivotal in shaping the lives of students.
By: Emmanuel Kwasi Debrah
