The Institute of Applied Science and Technology (IAST) has commissioned a mechanized borehole facility at the University of Ghana Environdome Greenhouse Training Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship on the 28th of December 2023.
The Mechanized Borehole facility was provided under the Corporate Social Responsibility and Sustainability Development Programme of Société Générale Ghana aimed at mitigating the inconsistent water supply issues faced by the greenhouse facility and also addressing challenges that have hindered the operation of the Greenhouse Vegetable Production Facility.
The commissioning of the mechanized borehole is a strategic response to address pressing challenges, particularly those arising from limited water availability and difficulties in irrigation access in crop production.
For more than a decade, the Greenhouse facility has played a crucial role in cultivating various edible crops, including Cucumber, tomatoes, lettuce, Bell pepper, and sweet melons.
Speaking at the ceremony, IAST director, Prof. David Dodoo-Arhin underscored how the mechanized borehole would also be poised to improve food processing. Moreover, it is envisioned to function as a thriving business center, for commercial purposes, whilst serving as a training and research center.
“In achieving the overall objectives, the Institute has adopted five focal areas including, Natural Resource Management, Energy and Climate Change Mitigation, Indigenous Knowledge and Health Management, Food Processing, Packaging and Agribusiness with linkages to the Sustainable Development Goals.”
“Water is a fundamental resource for life and agriculture. The erratic water supply challenges we have faced in the past have posed significant obstacles to the optimal functioning of our Greenhouse Vegetable Production Facility. Today’s commissioning marks a turning point in our journey, as we witness the fruition of a partnership that will not only sustain our operation but also empower us to contribute meaningfully to sustainable agriculture.”
The Managing Director and Executive Director of Société Générale Ghana Ltd, Mr. Hakim Ouzzanni, conveyed his pleasure at the bank’s involvement as a contributor to this significant achievement. He emphasized the importance of the borehole to guarantee the operational feasibility of the benefactory facility.
“When you have the water, it gives the opportunity to develop many things and we are happy to have this small contribution, which will help you to develop your experiences and work.”
In an interview with Univers News, the engineer in charge of the borehole construction, Ing. Daniel explained that the borehole could last forever with a continuous flow of water provided there is a power supply with appropriate maintenance.
“The water we have here can flow non-stop, even more than days without stopping provided we have the electricity or power supply. And it’s forever. At least a year servicing will do because the pump when well serviced or maintained can take more than five years before replaced.”
The Greenhouse Centre offers training to both students and non-students within the industry and those interested in exploring the agricultural field.
The Institute of Applied Sciences looks forward to a future where the collaboration yield not only abundant harvests in the Greenhouse Vegetable Production Facility but also contribute to the broader goals of sustainable development.
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Story by: Mabel Antwi | univers.ug.edu.gh
