Volta Region, Ball State University: Explore Academic Exchange to Strengthen Youth Development
The Volta Region is set to explore new academic and cultural exchange opportunities with Ball State University in the United States, following discussions between the Volta Regional Minister, Mr James Gunu, and a delegation from Feminine Star Africa.
The proposed partnership, which is expected to involve Ho Technical University and Ball State University, is aimed at promoting academic collaboration, cultural exchange and knowledge-sharing between institutions in Ghana and the United States.
The development emerged when the delegation, led by Professor Kiesha Warren-Gordon of Ball State University and the Coordinator of Feminine Star Africa, Mr Bismark Tay, paid a courtesy call on the Volta Regional Minister in Ho ahead of the 2026 Domestic Violence and Partner Abuse Forum.
The proposed exchange programme forms part of broader interventions by Feminine Star Africa and its partners to empower young people and women through education, skills development, advocacy and community-based initiatives.
The delegation also briefed the Minister on the organisation’s work, including educational scholarships, the provision of learning materials, vocational skills training, sanitation projects and advocacy against domestic violence.
It further highlighted its collaboration with the Ghana Police Service’s Domestic Violence and Victim Support Unit (DOVVSU), including capacity-building initiatives for officers in the Volta Region.
The 2026 Domestic Violence and Partner Abuse Forum is expected to bring together stakeholders from the Attorney-General’s Department, DOVVSU and the Department of Gender to examine the early warning signs of domestic violence, prevention strategies, victim protection and legal remedies available to survivors.
As part of the programme, a soccer clinic will also be organised for selected schools in the Ho Municipality, with sporting equipment to be donated to support youth development and promote positive behavioural change through sports.
Professor Warren-Gordon reaffirmed her commitment to working with local organisations to empower women and girls and contribute to building safer communities. She described Ghana as home and expressed her commitment to strengthening collaboration between international partners and communities in the Volta Region.
Mr James Gunu commended Feminine Star Africa and its partners for their sustained interventions in the areas of gender equality, protection of vulnerable persons and youth development.
He assured the delegation of the continued support of the Volta Regional Coordinating Council for initiatives that promote education, international collaboration and the development of a safer, more inclusive and resilient society.
Faustina Naa Ayele Johnson, ISD
