As part of a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative for their Master’s program in Strategic Communication, a group of students from the Department of Communication of the University of Ghana has successfully trained over 30 women in Teshie, Accra, in the preparation of liquid soap, shower gel and shampoos.
The project, conducted under the course “Community Relations and Corporate Social Responsibility,” aimed to empower women in the community with sustainable skills for economic independence.
The one-day training focused on equipping participants with practical skills in soap and shampoo production, alongside basic business management techniques to help them market their products effectively.
The initiative was driven by the belief that empowering women through entrepreneurship can significantly improve household incomes and contribute to community development.
Speaking on the project, Eric Kwame Amesimeku, a representative of the student group, said “We wanted to create a project that would leave a lasting impact. By equipping these women with skills they can use to start their own businesses, we are not only helping them earn an income but also empowering them to support their families and contribute to the local economy.”
The training session was held at a local Presbyterian Church in Teshie, with materials and equipment provided by the student group and the training undertaken by Cillagreen Empowerment Training Centre. The participants were taught step-by-step processes for making high-quality liquid soap, shower gel and shampoos, with a strong emphasis on hygiene, safety, and cost efficiency.
One of the participants, Lydia Mamle, shared her excitement about the program “This training has been a blessing. I’ve always wanted to start a small business, but I didn’t know where to begin. Now, I have the skills and confidence to start producing and selling my own products.”
The CSR project also included a mentorship component, with the group providing follow-up support to ensure the participants could apply their new skills effectively. The team is exploring partnerships with local organizations to provide additional resources and market access for the women.
The project has received positive feedback from community leaders and stakeholders, who commended the group for addressing a real need in the community.
This initiative exemplifies how academic projects can transcend the classroom to create tangible social impact. The students have not only fulfilled their course requirements but have also contributed to the broader goal of community empowerment.
The group hopes to inspire other organizations and individuals to invest in similar initiatives that empower marginalized groups and promote sustainable development in local communities.
