Nyankpala (N/R), Nov 13, GNA – A group of young graduates and tertiary students from the Movement for Youth Development visited the CSIR-Savanna Agricultural Research Institute (CSIR-SARI) Technology Park in Nyankpala to gain firsthand knowledge of innovations enhancing agricultural productivity in Ghana.
During their tour, the group was introduced to advanced farming solutions and improved seed varieties developed by CSIR-SARI to support agricultural growth and food security. The visit was designed to equip the students with valuable insights as they prepare to engage in farming as a business.
Technology Park: A Hub for Agricultural Advancement
The CSIR-SARI Technology Park, situated in the Tolon District of the Northern Region, serves as a demonstration hub showcasing modern farming techniques and agronomic innovations. Established under the West Africa Food System Resilience Programme in collaboration with CORAF and the Innovation Research Extension and Advisory Coordination Hub Consortium, the park features:
- 74 advanced technologies covering 10 crops.
- 69 improved crop varieties such as maize, soybean, cowpea, millet, and groundnut.
- 5 agronomic practices, including integrated soil management, optimized planting methods, and seed multiplication strategies.
Insights from the Visit
Mr. Lansah Haruna, Programmes Director for Movement for Youth Development, explained that the visit aimed to provide participants with critical information on available technologies and seed varieties to guide them as they explore agriculture as a viable business.
Dr. Francis Kusi, Director of CSIR-SARI, urged the youth to leverage the park’s innovations to boost agricultural production and address food security challenges. He emphasized that modern agricultural practices, backed by access to CSIR-SARI’s research and innovations, present opportunities for young people to generate wealth from farming.
Dr. Charles Nilimor, Manager of the Technology Park, encouraged farmers to adopt locally developed hybrid varieties, which are tailored to the region’s conditions. He noted that these varieties could revolutionize the agricultural sector by increasing productivity and resilience.
Student Reflections
Mr. Sulemana Alhassan, a final-year student from the University for Development Studies, shared his experience:
“The visit has been an eye-opener, exposing us to innovative farming techniques and climate-resilient seed varieties. I urge young people in agriculture to embrace these technologies to enhance productivity and ensure sustainability.”
A Call to Action
The visit concluded with a strong call to action for young people to view agriculture as a business. The CSIR-SARI Technology Park stands as a vital resource for farmers, researchers, and students, offering practical solutions for sustainable farming and inspiring a new generation to contribute meaningfully to Ghana’s agricultural sector.