ECOM-SMS Ghana launches ‘Agriculture Our Future Clubs’ to address threat of ageing farmer population
As part of efforts to inspire the next generation to embrace agriculture and secure the future of the sector, the Sustainable Management Services (SMS) under the auspices of ECOM Ghana has launched the Agriculture Our Future Clubs initiative in basic schools within its operational areas. The clubs are designed to go beyond classroom learning, exposing […]
The Sustainable Management Services (SMS) under ECOM Ghana has introduced the Agriculture Our Future Clubs initiative in basic schools to encourage young people to pursue careers in agriculture. This program, which has been launched in 40 schools across 12 districts, aims to expose pupils to various aspects of agribusiness, science, technology, marketing, and entrepreneurship.
At the launch event in Old Edubiase, the Acting General Manager of SMS at ECOM Ghana, Emmanuel Baffoe-Bonnie, highlighted the critical issue of ageing farmers in Ghana. According to data from the Ministry of Food and Agriculture, the average farmer is 55 years old, and in cocoa-growing areas, most farmers are over 50 years old. Young people are increasingly seeking non-agricultural careers, which threatens the future of the agricultural sector.
Baffoe-Bonnie emphasized that agriculture remains vital to Ghana's economy, contributing over 20% to the GDP and employing more than half of the workforce. He stressed that the initiative seeks to change the perception of agriculture as a viable and exciting career path for young people. The goal is to cultivate a generation that appreciates the value of agriculture, understands good agricultural practices, and recognizes the opportunities it presents.
The clubs provide children with knowledge in various areas, including agriculture, environmental conservation, climate awareness, nutrition, savings, entrepreneurship, leadership, teamwork, creativity, and problem-solving skills. Child protection is a central aspect of the program, with strict guidelines to prevent children from engaging in hazardous labor.
The clubs serve as safe spaces for children to express themselves and develop essential skills under the guidance of trained teachers who have undergone child protection training.
ECOM Ghana seeks partnerships from the Ghana Education Service, Ministry of Food and Agriculture, District Assemblies, traditional authorities, school leaders, teachers, parents, and community members to ensure the success of the initiative. Baffoe-Bonnie urged everyone to recognize that agriculture is not a last resort but a field of opportunity, innovation, and prosperity.
He emphasized that agriculture is the foundation of the future and expressed his commitment to investing in the future of children and the agricultural sector.
Written by urgent.news from MyJoyOnline Ghana's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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