Ambo City, Ethiopia – A total of 620 graduate students from Ambo University have completed an entrepreneurial skills training programme called Project Elevate, supported by Coca-Cola Beverages Africa (CCBA) in Ethiopia.
The course, conducted in two phases, was delivered by professional trainers and experts from CCBA in Ethiopia, along with university professors at the Ambo University campus.
“We are committed to operating with integrity, creating shared value for our business and the communities we call home,” said managing director at CCBA in Ethiopia, Melkamu Abebe.
“At CCBA, we strengthen our social license to operate by ensuring our business creates a lasting positive impact.”
Ayantu Bayisa, a diploma graduate in Urban Planning and Land Administration, said: “The training has helped me think in new ways and be more creative. It has sparked growth and an entrepreneurial mindset in me. I have learned not to give up, and even if I do not get a job right away, I can create opportunities for myself.
“By building my own path, I can grow, become empowered, and contribute to my family, my community, and my own future. I now believe that everything is possible, and I’m determined to create my own job and achieve big things.”
Fraol Zerihun, a graduate in Electrical Engineering, said: “The training was truly empowering; it opened my eyes to entrepreneurship and how we can generate ideas that move us towards better things.”
“I learned that entrepreneurs not only create opportunities for themselves but also for other young people. I’m grateful for the experience and encourage every youth to take part if given the opportunity, because it has the power to change lives.”
Dr Solomon Alemu Tolla, Assistant Professor in Social Work and Social Development at Ambo University, said: “I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to CCBA for organising such a timely training for our graduates. The training has been highly valuable in equipping graduates with essential skills to enhance their employability. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with CCBA to further support the professional development of our graduates.”
