250 in Kajelo benefit from agricultural training program backed by WUSC and Mastercard Foundation
The program, launched on Saturday, July 19, aims to provide hands-on skills in modern agricultural practices with a strong focus on empowering women and youth in the community.
A total of 250 residents of Kajelo in the Kassena Nankana West District are beneficiaries of a six-month practical agricultural training program, launched under the auspices of the World University Service of Canada (WUSC) with funding from the Mastercard Foundation.
The program, launched on Saturday, July 19, aims to provide hands-on skills in modern agricultural practices with a strong focus on empowering women and youth in the community.
The initiative will target 70% female and 30% male participants, underscoring its commitment to gender inclusivity and youth empowerment.
Speaking at the launch, Assemblyman for Kajelo, Dennis Akoriwo, shed light on the importance of the project in addressing local challenges such as unemployment, food insecurity, and lack of employable skills.
“This training program is expected to have a significant impact on the community, reducing unemployment and improving food security. By empowering women and youth with practical agricultural skills, we’re investing in the economic growth and long-term well-being of Kajolo.” Akoriwo said.
Yussif Adam, WUSC Zonal Coordinator for Northern Ghana, explained that the project is part of a broader effort to tackle youth unemployment and underemployment in the northern regions of Ghana.
“The project aims to address unemployment and underemployment, promoting economic growth and resilience in the region,” he said adding that this first batch of trainees will complete the program in six months.
The training is being delivered in partnership with the Bolgatanga Technical University (BTU), specifically through its Department of Ecological Agriculture.
Dr. Augustus Ninfaa Dery, a lecturer at BTU, called on participants to seize the opportunity and fully engage in the program.
“Previous experiences have shown that some participants may not take the training seriously, but I hope that this group will utilise the opportunity to improve their livelihoods,” Dr. Dery said.
According to Dr. Dery, participants will receive training in hatchery, brooding, and poultry processing, as well as perishable vegetable processing and organic vegetable production, areas identified as having high economic potential and relevance to the region.
One of the participants, Felicia Addi, expressed her gratitude on behalf of the trainees to WUSC, Bolgatanga Technical University, and the Assemblyman for the opportunity.
The project is part of a wider initiative by WUSC, with support from the Mastercard Foundation, to enhance the resilience and well-being of young women and men in Ghana’s agriculture sector.
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