President John Dramani Mahama has announced the upcoming rollout of the School Agriculture Programme, a mandatory initiative designed to integrate practical farming into the Ghanaian educational system.
Speaking at the 41st National Farmers’ Day in Ho, the President directed that all secondary schools and tertiary institutions across the country establish and maintain their own school farms.
The program aims to transform schools from mere consumers into active producers of the food they serve in their dining halls. President Mahama detailed a diverse scope for the initiative, encouraging institutions to raise poultry and livestock – including goats, sheep, and cattle – while cultivating essential vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, and okra.
To ensure the project moves beyond a theoretical concept, the government has already appointed a National School Agriculture Coordinator to oversee implementation and provide technical guidance to school administrators.
Beyond the immediate goal of strengthening national food security, the initiative is designed to achieve several long-term objectives:
- Reduced Operational Costs: By producing their own food, schools can significantly lower their procurement expenses.
- Practical Education: Students will gain hands-on experience in modern agronomy and animal husbandry, bridging the gap between classroom theory and field practice.
- Youth Interest: The program seeks to rebrand agriculture as a viable and attractive career path for the younger generation.
