By KINGSLEY LARBI( Rev. Prof.)
The journey of creating something extraordinary often comes with challenges that test the limits of our faith, perseverance, and ingenuity.
Chapter 31 of Born to Win, titled “Wonders Shall Never Cease,” provides a profound narrative of how faith, strategic planning, and community support came together to birth Central University College’s Business School.
Beyond being a compelling story, it serves as a guide for entrepreneurs, students, and visionaries seeking to operationalize their dreams in the face of adversity.
This article unpacks the timeless lessons embedded in this chapter, exploring how contemporary leaders, entrepreneurs, and students can apply them in their daily pursuits. By intertwining these insights with examples, financial data, and recent developments, we illuminate the path to achieving bold visions, no matter the odds.
The Power of Vision and Faith
In 1998, the establishment of Central University College’s Business School was seemingly hindered by a daunting prerequisite: the acquisition of fifty Pentium 4 computers. This challenge was not just logistical but a test of faith and determination.
When the original goal seemed unattainable, it was suggested that reducing the target to thirty computers might suffice. Enter Mr. Osei Owusu Korkor, an unexpected visitor who moved by a simple Sunday briefing, pledged to provide all thirty computers. Within six weeks, the computers arrived, proving that faith and preparedness could align with divine timing to produce miraculous outcomes.
Lesson for Today:
Entrepreneurs and leaders often face situations where resources seem scarce, and the odds feel overwhelming. This story underscores the importance of maintaining faith while preparing for contingencies. As modern business magnate Elon Musk famously said, “When something is important enough, you do it even if the odds are not in your favor.” Faith, combined with adaptability and resilience, creates a fertile ground for miracles.
Community and Unexpected Allies
A striking aspect of this narrative is the role of the community and unexpected generosity. Mr. Korkor, a visitor to the church and not a regular member, became a key contributor to the University project. His donation inspired others to support the vision, demonstrating how a single act of generosity can ignite a ripple effect of goodwill.
In contemporary Ghana, the entrepreneurial landscape has been bolstered by similar acts of community support. For example, in 2022, the Ghanaian startup Hubtel expanded its digital services with support from local investors and angel networks.
Similarly, global entrepreneurs like Jack Ma have emphasized the value of surrounding oneself with like-minded people who believe in one’s vision. For aspiring leaders, this narrative highlights the importance of cultivating relationships and seeking partnerships beyond familiar circles.
Strategic Decision-Making and Flexibility
A pivotal moment in Chapter 31 was the decision to reduce the initial requirement of fifty computers to thirty, acknowledging the immediate limitations while staying focused on the larger vision. This flexibility was not a compromise on ambition but a strategic adjustment to meet the immediate need, enabling the Business School to launch within the planned timeframe.
Lesson for Entrepreneurs:
Operationalizing a vision requires a delicate balance between long-term goals and short-term adaptability. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, several businesses, including Ghanaian agritech startups, shifted to digital platforms to sustain operations. By embracing flexibility, they ensured survival while staying aligned with their core missions.
Operational Excellence and Early Success
Central University College opened its doors in October 1998, admitting 300 students in its inaugural year, a remarkable feat considering the challenges. By its second year, enrollment nearly tripled to 952 students. The institution’s strategic location, flexible payment terms, and program offerings became competitive advantages, laying the groundwork for sustained growth.
The success of Central University mirrors the operational strategies of modern businesses like MTN Ghana, which focuses on accessibility, customer-centric services, and innovation. Entrepreneurs can learn from this by identifying unique value propositions and leveraging them to gain a competitive edge.
The Financial Impact of Vision
The establishment of the Business School was not merely an educational milestone but an economic one. By 1999, Central University had created opportunities for nearly 1,000 students, many of whom were working professionals. This had ripple effects on Ghana’s workforce, contributing to the economy by upskilling workers and increasing their earning potential.
Ghanaian Data:
According to the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS), tertiary education contributes significantly to the country’s GDP by enhancing labor productivity. A 2023 report revealed that graduates from tertiary institutions earn, on average, 40% more than their non-graduate counterparts. This underscores the transformative power of institutions like Central University in driving economic growth.
Practical Takeaways for Visionaries
Start with Faith, Backed by Action: Whether you’re launching a startup or initiating a community project, believe in your vision, but take actionable steps toward it.
- Leverage Unexpected Opportunities:
Build a network of supporters and be open to assistance from unexpected sources.
Be Flexible but Firm on Vision: Adjust your strategy as needed without losing sight of your ultimate goal.
- Create Value for Others:
Whether in education, business, or personal endeavors, focus on providing value that inspires others to invest in your vision.
- Measure and Celebrate Progress:
Like the rapid enrollment growth at Central University, track your milestones and use them to fuel further momentum.
Conclusion
“Wonders Shall Never Cease” is more than a story of faith and achievement—it is a roadmap for anyone striving to turn a dream into reality. The lessons embedded in Chapter 31 of Born to Win are as relevant today as they were in 1998, offering timeless principles for navigating challenges, leveraging community support, and operationalizing visions with strategic clarity.
For contemporary entrepreneurs, students, and visionaries, the story of Central University College’s Business School is a powerful reminder that faith, coupled with action, can turn the seemingly impossible into a tangible reality. As you embark on your journey, remember that the wonders of success are often just one act of faith away.
