Employability Bursary: Frederick Osei
Read how the Employability Bursary transformed Frederick’s aquaculture journey.
In this blog post, we bring you a firsthand account from one of our bursary recipients, Frederick Osei, who has leveraged this support to make significant strides in the field of aquaculture. Their story highlights the profound impact of the Employability Bursary on their educational and professional journey, demonstrating how such assistance can be a catalyst for success.
Frederick explains that aquaculture in Ghana has experienced significant growth over the last two decades, with Nile tilapia being the primary species produced. This rise in local fish production has increased per capita fish consumption to 28 kg, reducing the need for imports. However, the sector faced severe setbacks due to a disease outbreak and devastating floods from the Volta Lake dam, which destroyed properties and displaced many people reliant on fish farming.
In response to these challenges, the National Union of Ghana Students (NUGS) initiated the Aquaculture Project, focusing on training students and unemployed youth in fish farming. This project introduced the African catfish, a species easier to culture and manage, providing a fresh start for many aspiring aqua culturists. Starting on January 3rd, the project has involved practical activities such as land clearing, tank setup, and fingerling stocking.
How the Employability Bursary made a difference
The Employability Bursary played a crucial role in the success of this project by covering essential costs, including accommodation at the site, transportation, and acquisition of necessary tools and equipment. Items like fish tanks, fish feed, and other equipment were vital for practical demonstrations. With the community outreach set to begin, the project aims to train local farmers in modern fish farming techniques, thereby contributing to the growth of Ghana’s aquaculture sector.
My personal and academic journey
Studying at St Andrews has provided me with a deep understanding of the global aquaculture sector. The knowledge gained from my modules, combined with the practical experience facilitated by the Employability Bursary, has significantly advanced my career prospects. This bursary has not only supported my immediate educational needs but also set me on a path toward achieving my dreams in aquaculture.
Why you should apply for the Employability Bursary
The Employability Bursary is more than just financial aid; it’s a catalyst for achieving your career ambitions. Whether you’re looking to gain practical experience, further your studies, or start a new project, this bursary can provide the necessary support. It has opened doors for me and provided a significant boost to my future employment opportunities.
A final word …
We often have the skills, knowledge, and vision for our careers, but funding is crucial to turn these aspirations into reality. The Employability Bursary is here to help you achieve your goals, no matter what they are. If you have career ambitions and need financial support to make them happen, I highly encourage you to apply for this bursary. It has been a game-changer for me, and it can be for you too.
Take the first step towards unlocking your future—apply for the Employability Bursary today and set yourself on the path to success.
The Careers Centre is dedicated to empowering students to reach their professional goals. Our Employability Bursary is designed to provide financial support for students eager to enhance their career prospects through practical experience and advanced studies. We believe every student should have the opportunity to pursue their aspirations without financial constraints.