VIVO Energy Ghana PLC (VEGH) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the College of Engineering, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) to collaborate on the upcoming NextGen Energy Innovators Challenge, an initiative aimed at empowering students to develop innovative solutions for Ghana’s evolving energy needs.

The NextGen Energy Innovators Challenge is designed to foster innovation among students by providing a platform where young engineers and innovators can develop practical ideas and technologies addressing real-world challenges in the energy sector.

The MoU was signed during a courtesy visit to the University by the leadership and management team of Vivo Energy Ghana, following the successful ShePower Summit 2026 held at the University’s College of Engineering.

Mr. Christian Li, Managing Director of Vivo Energy Ghana (left) and Professor David Asamoah, Pro-Vice Chancellor of KNUST (right), signing the MoU.

The Managing Director of Vivo Energy Ghana expressed confidence in the partnership, noting that KNUST is the right place to foster such collaboration. “I believe we are at the right place and there are many more alumni from KNUST at Vivo Energy Ghana,” he said. He added that the future of energy would be driven by bold ideas, inclusive thinking, and strong collaboration, saying, “This partnership with KNUST reflects our commitment to nurturing the next generation of innovators and empowering them to transform ideas into impactful solutions for Ghana and beyond.”

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Professor David Asamoah, Pro Vice-Chancellor of KNUST, welcomed the collaboration and underscored the importance of academia-industry partnerships in driving innovation and national development, adding that at KNUST they strongly value partnerships between academia and industry, as their goal is to prepare students for real-world careers. He further assured the company of KNUST’s full support in nurturing the partnership.

Sharing remarks during the signing ceremony, Professor Edmund Ekuadzi, Dean of the International Programmes Office (IPO), said the agreement formally initiates the collaboration between the University and VEGH and marks the beginning of a structured academia-industry partnership. He noted that the collaboration will be led by Dr. Kwame Sarkodie, Head of Department, Petroleum Engineering.

Through the NextGen Energy Innovators Challenge, students will have the opportunity to showcase innovative concepts, prototypes, and research-driven solutions while benefiting from mentorship and exposure to industry expertise.

The partnership also reflects Vivo Energy Ghana’s broader vision to be Africa’s leading and most respected energy business by investing in people, strengthening institutions, and driving innovation that delivers long-term value for society.