UCAES SRC president urges young people to embrace agriculture

The newly elected President of the Students' Representative Council (SRC) of the University College of Agriculture and Environmental Studies (UCAES), Prince Amoako Atta, has called for increased youth participation in agriculture and environmental protection.

The 18th SRC President expressed concern over the declining interest in agriculture, despite the sector employing more than 40 per cent of Ghana's population.

He attributed the trend partly to illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, deforestation and the perception among young people that farming is unattractive.

According to him, Ghana's development prospects are closely linked to its ability to strengthen agricultural production and protect the environment.

Using California as an example, Hon. Amoako Atta highlighted the economic benefits of investing in agriculture, noting that communities could achieve significant growth when the sector receives adequate attention, resources and technological support.

“Agriculture has evolved beyond the traditional use of cutlasses and hoes, with emerging opportunities in agribusiness, biotechnology and other technology-driven agricultural practices,” he said.

He therefore urged young people to change their perception of farming and explore the numerous opportunities available across the agricultural value chain.

Hon. Amoako Atta also emphasised the importance of environmental protection, arguing that human survival depends largely on maintaining a healthy and sustainable environment.

He consequently called on individuals, institutions and the government to make agriculture and environmental protection national priorities to safeguard the country's future.

The UCAES SRC President further appealed to the government to extend support to private institutions specialising in agricultural and environmental education, stressing that their contributions to national development should not be overlooked because of their ownership status.

“The government must therefore pay attention to and support institutions that focus on agriculture and environmental studies to help make Ghana a major food hub,” he said.

He maintained that supporting such institutions would strengthen agricultural education, encourage innovation and equip more young people with the knowledge and skills needed to transform the sector.

Mr. Amoako Atta added that prioritising agriculture would not only improve food security but also promote peace, protect the ecosystem and create a sustainable environment for present and future generations.

He reiterated that a renewed national commitment to agriculture and environmental protection was essential to building a stronger and more resilient economy.