Kumasi, March 31, 2026 – Vivo Energy Ghana PLC has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the College of Engineering at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) to collaborate on the NextGen Energy Innovators Challenge, an initiative aimed at equipping students with the skills and platform to develop innovative solutions for Ghana’s evolving energy sector.
The partnership reflects a growing commitment between academia and industry to nurture innovation, build technical capacity, and prepare students for real-world challenges in the energy space.
The NextGen Energy Innovators Challenge is designed to foster creativity and problem-solving among students by providing a structured platform where young engineers and innovators can develop practical ideas, prototypes, and research-driven technologies that address real challenges within Ghana’s energy industry. Participants will benefit from mentorship, industry exposure, and opportunities to refine their ideas into scalable solutions.
The MoU was signed during a courtesy visit by the leadership and management team of Vivo Energy Ghana to KNUST, following the successful ShePower Summit 2026 held at the university’s College of Engineering. The visit further strengthened the relationship between both institutions and reinforced their shared vision of empowering the next generation.
Leading the Vivo Energy Ghana delegation, Managing Director Christian Li expressed confidence in the collaboration, describing KNUST as the right environment to drive innovation and talent development.
He noted that the partnership is timely, especially as the energy sector continues to evolve and demand new, forward-thinking solutions.
“I believe we are at the right place and there are many more alumni from KNUST at Vivo Energy Ghana,” he said.
He further explained that the future of energy will be driven by bold ideas, inclusive thinking, and strong collaboration between institutions and industry players.
“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,” he added.
On his part, the Pro Vice-Chancellor of KNUST, Professor David Asamoah, welcomed the collaboration and highlighted the importance of strengthening ties between academia and industry to drive innovation and national development.
He explained that KNUST remains committed to producing graduates who are ready for the demands of the professional world, adding that such partnerships are essential in aligning academic training with industry expectations.
“At KNUST we strongly value partnerships between academia and industry, as our goal is to prepare students for real-world careers. That is why we are keen to hear your perspective on how well our students meet your expectations,” he stated, while assuring the company of the university’s full support.
Also speaking at the ceremony, Professor Edmund Ekuadzi, Dean of the International Programmes Office, noted that the agreement formally initiates collaboration between the university and Vivo Energy Ghana and marks the beginning of a structured and long-term partnership.
He added that the collaboration will be led by Dr. Kwame Sarkodie, Head of the Department of Petroleum Engineering, who will coordinate efforts to ensure the initiative achieves its intended impact.
Through the NextGen Energy Innovators Challenge, students will have the opportunity to showcase innovative concepts, prototypes, and research-based solutions, while gaining direct access to industry professionals and practical experience that will enhance their career prospects.
The partnership aligns with Vivo Energy Ghana’s broader vision of becoming Africa’s leading and most respected energy business by investing in people, strengthening institutions, and driving innovation that delivers long-term value for society.
It also underscores a shared commitment between both institutions to develop talent, advance innovation, and contribute to building a sustainable energy future for Ghana.
Vivo Energy Ghana, the company responsible for the distribution and marketing of Shell-branded fuels and lubricants, was established in 2013. The Shell brand has been present in Ghana since 1928. The company has a fuel storage capacity of 11,000 cubic metres and operates about 250 service stations, many of which offer Shell Cards and convenience retail services.
The Vivo Energy Group operates across North, West, East and Southern Africa, as well as in the Indian Ocean Islands. The Group manages a network of over 4,000 service stations across 28 markets under the Engen and Shell brands, and exports lubricants to several African countries.
Its operations cover a wide range of services including fuels, lubricants, liquefied petroleum gas, chemicals, and non-fuel retail services such as convenience stores and restaurants. The company serves multiple sectors including aviation, marine, mining, construction, transport, agriculture, manufacturing and power.
Vivo Energy employs more than 6,000 people and has access to over two billion litres of fuel storage capacity. The company continues to invest in innovative and sustainable energy solutions across its markets.
For more information, visit www.vivoenergy.com
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