The Department of Crop Science at the University of Ghana has launched a groundbreaking Plant ID initiative aimed at tagging all trees on campus with QR codes to provide visitors with instant information about each species.
The project, spearheaded by Senior Lecturer Dr. Naalamie Amissah, also has plans to expand to the university’s botanical garden and eventually to other botanical sites across the country.
The initiative allows anyone on campus to scan a QR code placed on a tree and access detailed information, making it easier for students, staff, and visitors to engage with the biodiversity around them.
Speaking on Campus Exclusive, Dr. Amissah explained the long-term vision behind the project.
“The long-term goal is to tag all the trees on campus and eventually expand into the botanical garden. We have quite a number of old and unique trees there. Eventually, we could engage with other botanical gardens to pilot a similar initiative. Visitors will be able to scan codes and explore the garden on their own—no tour guide needed. You become your own guide.”
Dr. Amissah expressed gratitude to the university’s management for their support and encouraged the community to participate in the initiative by scanning the codes and providing feedback.
“Scanning the QR codes and giving us feedback would be a great help. The University of Ghana has done an excellent job increasing the plant material on campus. It’s a beautiful, green space really unique.”
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Edited by: Cindy Selasi Humade
