As the global population continues to grow, so does the demand for food. The United Nations estimates that the world will need to produce 70% more food by 2050 to meet the needs of a projected 9.7 billion people.This challenge is compounded by climate change, which threatens to disrupt food production in many parts of the world. Training children in agriculture is a critical step toward ensuring that future generations have the knowledge and skills necessary to produce food sustainably and efficiently.
agricultural education can play a crucial role in promoting health and nutrition. When children learn to grow their own food, they gain a greater appreciation for fresh, healthy produce. This knowledge can translate into better eating habits and a preference for whole, unprocessed foods.
Agriculture teaches children valuable life skills, including responsibility, patience, and problem-solving. Caring for plants and animals requires a level of commitment and attention to detail that can help children develop a strong work ethic. Moreover, by working with the land, children gain a deeper appreciation for the environment and the delicate balance that must be maintained to sustain life.
The challenges of the future climate change, resource scarcity, and food insecurity will require innovative solutions and a deep understanding of agricultural practices.
By training children in agriculture, we are not just preparing them for potential careers in farming; we are equipping them with the tools they need to address some of the most pressing issues of our time.
Whether they become farmers, policymakers, scientists, or informed citizens, children who are educated in agriculture will be better prepared to contribute to a more sustainable and food-secure world.
They will have the knowledge and skills to develop new farming techniques, advocate for sustainable policies, and make informed decisions that benefit both people and the planet.
Agrihouse Foundation in partnership with ,Driven Concept, successfully hosted the Junior Farmers Mentorship Day, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at nurturing a love for agriculture among children.
The Mentorship Day brought together children aged between three and ten years, instilling in them a sense of responsibility and appreciation for sustainable agricultural practices provided young participants with a unique opportunity to learn the basics of gardening and understand the benefits of growing their own food.
Through hands-on training sessions, the children were taught how to set up and maintain their own backyard gardens, with lessons on soil basics and composition, safety guidelines, an introduction to gardening tools, and practical gardening experience.
Each child received a comprehensive startup pack, including seeds, seed trays, fertilizers, and compost, to help them apply their new skills at home and foster a lasting interest in gardening.
Speaking at the event, Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa, Executive Director of Agrihouse Foundation, emphasized the importance of cultivating an early interest in agriculture. “Our goal with the Junior Farmers Mentorship Day is to inspire a new generation of agricultural enthusiasts. By teaching children, the basics of gardening and the benefits of growing their own food, we aim to foster a lifelong appreciation for agriculture and sustainability,” she stated.By introducing children to agriculture at a young age, we can lay the foundation for a generation that understands the importance of food security.
They will learn where their food comes from, how it is grown, and the challenges involved in food production. This knowledge will not only make them more conscious consumers but also inspire some to pursue careers in agriculture, thereby contributing to the global effort to secure our food supply.
“We believe that empowering children with practical agricultural knowledge at an early age is essential for building a food-secure future. This program not only educates them on the importance of agriculture but also equips them with the skills they need to start their own gardens and understand the value of self-sufficiency,” she remarked.
The children themselves were excited to share what they had learned during the day. Agyeiwaa Abena Boakye Agyeman , a 10-year-old participant, said, “I learned how to plant seeds and take care of them. I’m going to start a garden at home with the seeds they gave me.” Jaden Otu Nana Darko , an 8-year-old attendee, added, “I didn’t know much about soil, but now I know how important it is to have good soil for plants to grow well.”
Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa added that this initiative is part of Agrihouse Foundation’s broader mission to promote agricultural education and awareness across all age groups. “By engaging children in hands-on agricultural activities, we believe we can contribute to the development of a more sustainable and food-secure future,” she noted.
The Junior Farmers Mentorship Day is one of many initiatives spearheaded by Driven Concept and Agrihouse Foundation aimed at supporting and empowering individuals within the agricultural sector. Through events like this, these organizations continue to play a vital role in promoting agricultural education, innovation, and community engagement.
Agrihouse Foundation continue to play a vital role in promoting agricultural education, innovation, and community engagement through initiatives like the Junior Farmers Mentorship Day. Parents and guardians interested in future events or seeking more information are encouraged to contact Joseph at 0570246813 or Alberta at 0244623012.