The Energy Personalities’ Outreach Programme (EPOP) took centre-stage at Wesley Grammar Senior High School on Thursday, 3rd October 2024, as some of the most influential figures in Ghana’s energy industry engaged students in a memorable and empowering event.
Powered by the Energy Media Group (EMG) – the organisers of the Ghana Energy Awards, the programme aims to inspire young minds, bridging the gap between industry professionals and the leaders of tomorrow.
Held under the theme ‘Impacting the next generation leaders today’, the outreach event featured keynote addresses from renowned energy sector leaders, including Dr. Edwin Provencal, the Managing Director of the Bulk Energy Storage and Transportation (BEST) Company Limited; and Kadijah Amoah, the Chief Executive Officer of Pecan Energies Ghana.
Their goal was simple, yet profound: to motivate the students to see the energy industry as a vital career path, and to emphasise the role of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) in fostering innovation and sustainable progress in Ghana and beyond.
Key highlights
In his welcome address, the Chief Executive Officer of EMG and the Event Director of the Ghana Energy Awards, Henry Teinor, accentuated that the outreach programme was designed to complement the government’s efforts in promoting STEM education. He noted that mentorship and early exposure are critical in enhancing the involvement of the youth in the country’s growing energy sector.
Dr. Edwin Provencal’s keynote speech was a personal and powerful reflection on perseverance and dedication. Addressing the over 900 eager students, Dr. Provencal recounted his journey from modest beginnings to becoming one of Ghana’s top energy leaders.
His central message—anchored in resilience, innovation and a commitment to national development—struck a chord with the students. He urged them to harness their unique talents to make meaningful contributions to their communities, and stressed the importance of pursuing STEM fields to unlock a brighter future.
Mrs. Kadijah Amoah built on this momentum, delivering an engaging and motivating session. As a leading voice for women in the energy sector, she encouraged students to become the leaders of their own lives by setting long-term goals and working with purpose. Her message, particularly targeted at young women, was clear: break barriers, strive for excellence and lead the way in shaping Ghana’s energy future.
Both speakers observed that while the energy sector presents immense opportunities, it requires resilience and determination to succeed. They urged the students to view their education as a powerful tool for future success, especially in tackling the global energy challenges that Ghana and the world will face.
The event’s Q&A session, led by Lawyer Kwame Jantuah, the chairman of the awarding panel of the Ghana Energy Awards, presented an enriching platform for the students to interact with these industry stalwarts. Their questions, ranging from career pathways in the energy sector to insights into energy solutions, reflected a growing awareness and enthusiasm for STEM-related fields among the Ghanaian youth.
Industry leaders in action
Speaking to the media after the event, Dr. Provencal praised the Ghana Energy Awards for initiating the Energy Personalities’ Outreach Programme. He noted that by engaging students at this stage, the programme plants the seed of curiosity and interest in STEM, equipping the next generation with the skills required to thrive in the fourth industrial revolution. “We are shaping the leaders who will drive Ghana’s energy future,” he remarked.
Mrs. Amoah, addressing the need for women empowerment in the energy industry, encouraged colleague women in the industry to create opportunities for others; and called on young female students to challenge traditional roles by pursuing careers in the energy sector.
A future-focused initiative
The Energy Personalities’ Outreach Programme has proven itself to be a vital initiative for inspiring young minds across the country. By connecting students with successful professionals in the energy sector, the programme not only broadens their horizons but also provides them with concrete steps on how to pursue careers in STEM.
The event at Wesley Grammar showcased the profound impact that mentorship and guidance can have on students, many of whom expressed new-found interest in pursuing STEM subjects and understanding their role in Ghana’s energy future.
A platform for career inspiration
Now in its sixth edition, the Energy Personalities Outreach Programme has reached schools such as Achimota School, West Africa Senior High School, Nungua Senior High School, St. Mary’s Senior High School and Aburi Girls’ Senior High School, continually inspiring students and preparing them for future roles in the energy sector.
Wesley Grammar’s event marks yet another milestone in this ongoing journey to develop a robust STEM foundation for the youth.
As the Ghana Energy Awards looks to expand its reach to more schools across the country, the programme remains a significant investment in nurturing future energy leaders. The event stands as a reminder of the transformative power of education, mentorship and industry collaboration.
About the Ghana Energy Awards
The Ghana Energy Awards honours and celebrates the contributions of individuals and organisations to the growth and sustainability of Ghana’s energy sector. Through added initiatives like the Energy Personalities’ Outreach Programme, the awards secretariat continues its mission of cultivating the next generation of energy professionals.
The 8th edition of the awards is set to take place on Friday, 25th October 2024 at 6:30pm at the Labadi Beach Hotel in Accra.
