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In the dynamic environment of UniMAC-IFT, where academic pursuits often take centre stage, Safiya Muhammad Ikleel, a level 200 Broadcast Journalism student, is making significant strides in the world of business.

Safiya, a level 200 Broadcast Journalism student

Safiya is part of the 23% of university students in Ghana who manage to balance their academic responsibilities with running their own businesses, as reported by the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme (NEIP).

Safiya's entrepreneurial journey began with a clear objective: to generate additional income to support her educational and personal expenses.

Her business model is simple yet effective—selling clothes to her peers. Every day after classes, Safiya transitions from student to businesswoman, operating her thriving mini-boutique.

“I have some problem with my health, ranging from my brain to my heart and my stomach so I can’t actually sell my clothes like I used to but I still need money to keep going to cater for my daily upkeep so I decided to start selling the clothes in school” she said.

Safiya sells to customers after classes only

One of the key factors behind Safiya's success is her adaptive pricing strategy. She regularly adjusts her prices to reflect current economic conditions, ensuring that her business remains profitable.

By offering competitive prices and flexible payment options, including sales on credit, Safiya has been able to attract and retain a loyal customer base. This customer-centric approach has not only boosted her sales but also strengthened her market position.

“Considering that I’m selling to students I have to make sure that when price increase, I increase and when price decreases, I decrease and I don’t add so much profit so that I can actually make some money and students can also afford my clothes” she said.

Safiya Muhammad Ikleel

Financially, Safiya's business has been a game-changer. Her earnings provide her with the means to afford essential items and experiences that would otherwise be out of reach.

“I make from 50 Cedis to 300 Cedis. Actually, with the money that I gain I am able to afford certain things which I used not to be able to afford” she said.

This financial independence underscores the significant impact of student entrepreneurship on personal and professional development.

Looking to the future, Safiya has ambitious plans to expand her business beyond the borders of Ghana.

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She envisions leveraging her current success to tap into international markets, driven by the knowledge and network she is building during her time at UniMAC-IFT.