The University of Ghana has launched the UG Nkabom collaborative initiative to drive innovation, education, and entrepreneurship within the agri-food sector.
The project is a joint effort between UG and partners, including the Mastercard Foundation, McGill University, KNUST, Koforidua Technical University (KTU), Ashesi University, UHAS, UESD, and the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI).
The initiative, themed “Empowering Youth for a Sustainable Agri-Food Revolution in Ghana and Beyond,” aims to transform Ghana’s food systems through strategic partnerships and capacity building.
The launch ceremony, held on Monday, July 28, at the Great Hall, was chaired by Vice Chancellor Prof. Nana Aba Appiah Amfo. Also present were Deputy Minister for Food and Agriculture John Setor Dumelo, who served as special guest; Secretariat Director of the Nkabom Collaborative Mr. Pierre Brunache; Keynote Speaker Prof. Anna Lartey; and Collaborative Lead at UG Prof. Richmond Aryeetey.
In his address, Dumelo commended the initiative, noting that it aligns with the government’s “Feed Ghana” project. He encouraged the youth present to seize the opportunity to shape the country’s agricultural landscape, emphasising the critical role they play in its future.
Prof. Aryeetey highlighted the initiative’s alignment with key Sustainable Development Goals, including Zero Hunger (SDG 2), Quality Education (SDG 4), Gender Equality (SDG 5), Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8), and Climate Action (SDG 13). He announced that the initiative would introduce several educational programs, including a Ph.D. in sustainable food systems beginning in January 2026, and a series of short professional courses launching in September 2026.
“This initiative is about building a skilled, future-ready workforce to drive change in Ghana’s food systems. We are calling on investors, policymakers, traditional leaders, the media and all stakeholders to rally behind this vision.”
Head of Workforce Development at the Mastercard Foundation, Emelia Asamoah Ayipio, lauded the university and its partners for bringing the initiative to life. She emphasised the need for an agri-food sector that is smart, inclusive and responsive to nutrition and climate demands. She further called for sustained efforts to close the opportunity gap, especially for women and children.
In her closing remarks, Prof. Amfo reiterated the university’s commitment to advancing education and entrepreneurship through strategic collaboration. She described the Nkabom Collaborative as a forward-thinking response to the challenges facing Ghana’s agri-food systems and a clear signal of UG’s intent to lead transformation through innovation.
The event drew participation from a cross-section of stakeholders, including students from Achimota School, Presbyterian Boys’ Secondary School (PRESEC) Legon, and West African Senior High School (WASS), alongside officials from the Ministry of Trade and Industry, the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, and Chief Executive Officer of the Environmental Protection Agency Prof. Nana Ama Browne Klutse.
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Story by Oliver Arthur Acorlor | univers.ug.edu.gh
Edited by Michelle Lartey
