CREP Africa Applauds Progress Toward the Establishment of Ohawu University of Agriculture

The Centre for Research and Education Policy (CREP Africa) welcomes with great enthusiasm the recent presentation made before Parliament by the Minister for Education, Haruna Iddrisu, outlining a strategic roadmap for the establishment of the Ohawu University of Agriculture. This development marks a significant milestone in Ghana’s quest to strengthen its agricultural education and research architecture.

On various write-ups, CREP Africa has consistently advocated for the elevation of the Ohawu institution into a fully fledged university, recognizing its immense potential to serve as a centre of excellence in agricultural innovation, research, and community development. The current proposal by government, which seeks to first upgrade the institution into an Agricultural Sciences campus under the University of Engineering and Agricultural Sciences before transitioning it into an autonomous University of Agriculture, reflects a well thought out and pragmatic approach to institutional development.

This phased strategy provides a solid foundation for infrastructural expansion, academic capacity building, and administrative strengthening. It also ensures that the institution is not only established in name, but is adequately equipped to deliver on its mandate in a sustainable and impactful manner.

CREP Africa particularly commends the Member of Parliament for Ketu North, Edem Agbana, for his relentless advocacy, commitment, and visionary leadership in championing this cause. His sustained engagement, coupled with his resolve to consult widely with stakeholders before issuing an official position, demonstrates a commendable dedication to inclusive governance and responsible representation.

The establishment of the Ohawu University of Agriculture holds far reaching implications for the socio economic transformation of the Volta Region and Ghana as a whole. It has the potential to drive agricultural modernization, create employment opportunities, promote research driven farming practices, and contribute meaningfully to national food security.

In light of this, CREP Africa reiterates the need for government to ensure adequate investment in critical infrastructure, align academic programmes with contemporary agricultural demands, and foster strong partnerships between the institution, local communities, and industry players. A sustainable funding framework will also be essential to guarantee the long term success and independence of the university.

CREP Africa remains committed to supporting this noble initiative through evidence based research, policy advocacy, and stakeholder collaboration. The progress made thus far is encouraging, and with continued commitment from all actors, the vision of establishing the Ohawu University of Agriculture will soon become a reality.

The advocacy continues.