Ghana’s Deputy Agriculture Minister Pushes for Farm Education in Elementary Schools
John Dumelo, Ghana’s Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Member of Parliament for Ayawaso West Wuogon, is advocating for agriculture education in the country’s basic school curriculum. The politician believes early exposure to farming concepts will inspire students to pursue agricultural careers.
Dumelo has called on school authorities to restructure their educational programs to include agriculture components. His “plant the seed early” approach aims to introduce children to farming principles during their formative years. The initiative targets Ghana’s elementary education system, where students would learn fundamental agricultural practices alongside traditional subjects.
The Deputy Minister argues that integrating agriculture into basic education will help students visualize farming as a viable career path. This educational reform could address Ghana’s agricultural workforce needs while building food security awareness among young Ghanaians.
Ghana’s economy relies heavily on agriculture, with the sector employing approximately 44% of the country’s workforce. However, many young people view farming as less attractive compared to other professions. Dumelo’s proposal seeks to change these perceptions by making agriculture education accessible from an early age.
The call for curriculum restructuring comes as Ghana faces challenges in agricultural productivity and youth unemployment. By introducing farming concepts in elementary schools, the government hopes to cultivate interest in agriculture among the next generation. School authorities have yet to announce specific implementation plans for this educational initiative.
