Dr. Hilla Limann Technical University (DHLTU) has organised a stakeholder engagement meeting in Wa, Ghana, as part of the activities of the AGRoECOlogical FARMing Master programme – AGRECOFARM project.
The meeting brought together representatives from the agricultural sector, researchers, lecturers, students, and local institutions to discuss how the project can contribute to the transformation of agricultural and food systems in Ghana and across West Africa. The initiative aims to strengthen African partner universities by turning them into knowledge hubs capable of transferring skills and competences in sustainable agriculture and agroecology.
AGRECOFARM, funded by the European Union’s Erasmus+ Programme, involves a consortium of five West African universities from Ghana, Sierra Leone, and Nigeria. Within the project, DHLTU will contribute to the development of a new Master of Science programme in Agroecology, with a focus on precision agriculture, organic crop production, and conservation agriculture practices.
A key component of the project is the establishment of an agroecological laboratory at DHLTU. This facility will support teaching, practical training, and research activities, helping to bridge traditional agricultural knowledge with modern ecological and technological approaches.
During the event, DHLTU also highlighted the importance of collaboration with local stakeholders. Planned partnerships with organisations such as the Centre for Indigenous Knowledge and Organisational Development, the Savannah Agricultural Research Institute, and the Agricultural Directorate will provide internship and practical learning opportunities for AGRECOFARM students.
Stakeholders expressed their commitment to supporting the implementation of the project, recognising agroecology as a strategic approach to address climate change, food security, and the sustainability of agricultural systems in West Africa. The engagement confirmed the central role of cooperation among universities, research centres, institutions, and farming communities in building resilient and sustainable food systems.