Tamale, August 27, 2026 .
HOPin Academy has launched the third phase of its Plan B initiative, aimed at equipping young footballers with entrepreneurship, employability and other essential skills to prepare them for life beyond the football pitch.
Group discussion session during the plan B phase III launchDubbed “Plan B Phase III – Building Sustainable Pathways Beyond the Pitch,” the initiative was introduced at a workshop organized by HOPin Academy at Swad International Kitchen and Bar in Tamale on Thursday, August 27.
Speaking to the media after the programme on behalf of HOPin Academy’s Chief Executive Officer, McCarthy Mac-abathy, Plan B Project Coordinator Joshua Amehi said the initiative seeks to address the uncertainty facing young footballers whose dreams of becoming professionals may not materialize. He said Plan B provides young players with alternative skills they can use to generate income and sustain their livelihoods after leaving the pitch or hanging their football boots.
Mr Amehi explained that Phase III focuses particularly on helping young footballers navigate the entrepreneurship gap, while strengthening safeguarding, protection of players’ rights and advocacy for systemic change to support their career development.
The initiative promotes a dual-career pathway, encouraging young footballers to pursue their sporting ambitions while also investing in education, entrepreneurship, vocational training and personal development.
The workshop brought together representatives from football clubs, secondary schools, football associations and tertiary institutions in the Northern Region, including Nasara Ladies, Bagabaga Ladies, Tamale Super Ladies, Northern Ladies, Vision FC, CFC and Shooting Stars, as well as representatives from the Northern Regional Football Association, Sagnarigu Municipal Football Association and Tamale Metro Football Association. Representatives from institutions including the University for Development Studies, Tamale Technical University, Tamale College of Education and Bagabaga College of Education also participated.
Group picture of participants and organizers after the launch.According to HOPin Academy, participants will have access to career guidance, employability and entrepreneurship training, educational and scholarship support, as well as health and well-being services through five specialized Expert Desks.
Mr.Joshua Amehi also called on players, clubs, institutions and other stakeholders to demonstrate patience and strengthen collaboration to ensure the success of the programme.
HOPin Academy, established in 2013, has an overarching objective of empowering young people to develop entrepreneurial ideas into income-generating ventures and become productive members of society.
The Plan B journey began about six years ago, with earlier phases focusing on mentoring, digital skills, entrepreneurship and a six-month apprenticeship programme for young people.