UPSA Vice-Chancellor Urges Young Africans to Become Problem-Solvers

The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), Prof. John Kwaku Mensah Mawutor, has called on young people to become innovators and problem-solvers who can contribute practical solutions to Africa’s challenges.

Speaking at the opening of the 12th Students and Young Professionals African Liberty Academy (SYPALA 2026), Prof. Mawutor said Ghana’s challenge is not a shortage of policies but a lack of people with the capacity to examine those policies critically and turn them into practical solutions.

He urged young people to move away from being passive recipients of opportunities and instead take an active role in solving problems and contributing to national development.

“At UPSA, we believe that a University is not judged only by the knowledge it produces, but by the problems that the knowledge is able to solve.”

Prof. Mawutor said SYPALA is more than a conference, describing it as an opportunity to help shape the next generation of leaders and global thinkers.

The four-day programme, organised by UPSA in collaboration with the IMANI Center for Policy and Education, brings together 100 young Africans to discuss issues affecting Africa’s economy and governance.

The programme is being held from August 24 to 28, 2026, under the theme “Africa’s Ascent: Forging Resilient Economies and Inclusive Governance.”

Participants are engaging policymakers, economists, academics and development experts on issues including economic resilience, leadership, innovation and inclusive governance.

SYPALA 2026 is expected to conclude on Friday, August 28, 2026.