York, United Kingdom – A meeting between officials from the University for Development Studies (UDS), the University of York in the UK, and Savannah and Sahel Commodities Limited (SSCL) was held to review progress on a collaborative project aimed at addressing malnutrition in Ghana. The project, centered around the production of C-real, a nutritious meal designed to combat malnutrition among school children and low-income households, has been hailed as a beacon of innovation and cooperation.

The meeting served as a platform to update all parties on the progress made in product development, supply chain management, marketing strategies, and consumer research. The project, which integrates expertise across multiple fields, has seen substantial advancements, further cementing the commitment of all partners to improve livelihoods in Ghana.

PROGRESS AND CONTRIBUTIONS
C-real, the flagship product of the partnership, has been specifically formulated to address nutritional deficiencies in vulnerable populations. Its development involved rigorous market research and a focus on affordability and accessibility for low-income households.

The University for Development Studies (UDS) has played a pivotal role in consumer market research, supply chain planning, and facilitating the involvement of local communities. The University of York contributed significantly to the design of the business model, market strategies, and product development. Savannah and Sahel Commodities Limited (SSCL), with its extensive experience in agri-business, led the business development and marketing implementation phases.

Prof. Karolos Papadas, the Academic Supervisor from the University of York, expressed his enthusiasm for the progress achieved. “This project is a testament to what collaboration across continents can achieve. It is inspiring to see how this partnership is making a tangible difference in alleviating malnutrition among Ghana’s most vulnerable populations,” he stated.

PRESENTATIONS AND FUTURE PROSPECTS 
During the meeting, Mr. Valentine Acharibasam, the Knowledge Transfer Associate for UDS and SSCL, delivered a comprehensive presentation highlighting the project’s journey and milestones. His insights emphasized the collaborative effort required to bring C-real from concept to implementation.

The CEO of SSCL, Mr. Senyo Kpelly, was equally optimistic about the project’s trajectory. “The eventual establishment of a factory in Tamale, in collaboration with the University of Ghana, will not only boost production but also create jobs and enhance the economic prospects of the region,” he remarked.

Prof. Abunga Mamudu Akudugu, the Project Academic Lead from UDS, called for sustained commitment to the partnership. “As we celebrate the progress made, we must also strategize on how to continue impacting the lives of the poor and marginalized. This project has the potential to become a long-term solution to malnutrition,” he emphasized.

VICE-CHANCELLOR’S REMARKS 
The Vice-Chancellor of UDS, Prof. Seidu Al-hassan, lauded the project’s achievements and reiterated the university’s dedication to impactful collaborations. “This partnership underscores the importance of international cooperation in addressing global challenges. I urge all parties to deepen their collaboration to ensure the long-term success of this initiative,” he said.

RECOGNITION AND FUTURE IMPACT
Due to the resounding success of the project, UDS has been nominated for an award at the prestigious UK Innovate Knowledge Transfer Partnership Awards. This recognition highlights the groundbreaking work being done and its potential to serve as a model for similar initiatives worldwide.

As the meeting concluded, it was evident that the collaboration between UDS, the University of York, and SSCL was not just a project but a transformative journey impacting lives and communities. The hope is that this partnership continues to thrive, delivering sustainable solutions to malnutrition and poverty in Ghana and beyond