The Government, through the Ministry of Education, is set to present a new bill to Parliament for the establishment of the University of Agriculture and Life Sciences in Kintampo.
The new institution will serve the Bono Region and support national agricultural development strategy.
The Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, made the disclosure during the official inauguration of the Governing Council of the S.D. Dombo University on May 12.
Agriculture has remained a priority on the national agenda for over two decades. However, experts continue to raise concerns about the sector’s lack of modernization and insufficient investment.
A major challenge remains the low support for agricultural science and innovation, which limits crop yield and production.
Research has already identified several fertile zones within the Bono Region that could significantly contribute to national food production. Experts also stress the need to train young people in modern, science-based farming techniques.
It is in response to these concerns that the Education Minister announced the establishment of the new university.
“It is the desire of government that every region of Ghana will be host to one higher education institution of learning. It is the dream and desire of President Mahama that in each region there will be an established university.”
“One of the new universities that I will lay a bill in Parliament will be the University of Health, Agriculture and Life Sciences at Kintampo to serve the Bono Region. I intend to table the bill in Parliament as soon as Parliament reconvenes,” he announced.
He assured the Governing Council of the S.D. Dombo University of continued government support, particularly in completing ongoing GETFund projects.
“S.D Dombo has not seen any significant support, in terms of infrastructure. I am happy to announce that this year government through the GETFund will make available some seed money for S.D Dombo University as part of President Mahama’s quest to support the institution to grow,” the Minister said.
Chairman of the Governing Council, Dr. Benjamin Kumbour, pledged to work hard to restore and enhance the fortunes of the University.
“We on our part will also try private initiatives and see how the local community of the region will also be encouraged to bring their contributions to develop the university,” Dr Kumbuar assured.
With education and agriculture at the heart of national growth, these developments are expected to open new opportunities for youth empowerment and food security in Ghana.
