What's Happening?
Yaa Naa Abukari II, the overlord of Dagbon, has called for schools in the Northern Region to engage in farming activities. This initiative is seen as a means to bolster food security and economic growth.
The call was made during a visit by the Northern College of Science and Technology, the winner of the 2025 National Junior High School Agricultural Award, to the Gbewaa Palace. Yaa Naa emphasized that school farming could provide nutritious food for students, address feeding challenges, and reduce government spending on food supplies. He also praised President John Dramani Mahama for recognizing schools excelling in agriculture during the Farmers’ Day celebrations. The event, held in the Volta Region, highlighted the importance of agriculture in contributing to Ghana's GDP and reducing the country's reliance on imported food products.
Why It's Important?
The advocacy for school agriculture by Yaa Naa Abukari II underscores the critical role of education in addressing food security challenges. By integrating farming into school curriculums, students can gain practical skills that contribute to local food production. This initiative not only supports the national food basket but also reduces the financial burden on the government for food imports. The recognition of schools by President Mahama during Farmers’ Day celebrations serves as an incentive for educational institutions to expand their agricultural activities. This approach aligns with broader efforts to enhance agricultural productivity and sustainability in the region, potentially leading to economic growth and improved livelihoods for communities.
