Take Advantage of Every Opportunity -Patron Zanetor to 7th AG-STUD Bootcampers

Take Advantage of Every Opportunity -Patron Zanetor to 7th AG-STUD Bootcampers

The Patron for The Agricultural Student Career Guidance and Mentorship Bootcamp, Hon. Dr Zanetor Agyemang Rawlings have urged agricultural student and beginner agribusinesses to take advantage of opportunities from the bootcamp to learn from mentors, industry expect and past beneficiaries and others we have excelled in the agricultural sector to guide and help them succeed.

The six-day event currently on-going at the GNAT Hall, Under the theme “Accelerating Our Efforts in Enabling and Advancing Career Opportunities for Agri-Youth: Role of Public, Private, and Development Partners,” the bootcamp has served as a beacon for students seeking to explore diverse career paths within the agricultural sector. Over the past six years, it has provided a platform for Agric student and beginner agribusinesses to connect with mentors, industry experts, and past beneficiaries, equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their chosen fields.

In her patron remarks, Hon. Zanetor Agyemang Rawlings  emphasized that agriculture has emerged as an increasingly profitable and lucrative industry in recent years, driven by advancements in technology, evolving consumer demands, and the growing global population she  urged the campers to take advantage of every opportunity the bootcamp has to offer by learning from mentors ,industry experts and individauls who have excelled in the agricultural sector and also capitalize on the networking opportunities the bootcamp offers

Additionally, Dr. Zanetor Agyemang Rawlings extended her commendations to Agrihouse Foundation for their unwavering commitment to introducing impactful intervention initiatives aimed at bolstering the agricultural sector. She lauded the foundation’s dedication to nurturing youth talent within the agricultural sphere and providing them with the requisite skills to catalyze the sector’s growth.

For her part, the Executive Director of Agrihouse foundation, Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa, reiterated the organization’s commitment to empowering youth in agriculture. She highlighted the past success of the program and emphasized the foundation’s dedication to ensuring more young individuals venture into the agriculture sector. Through ongoing initiatives, the foundation aims to create a sustainable and thriving agricultural ecosystem for future generations, she also expressed her profound gratitude to Hon Zanetor Agyemang -Rawlings for consistently supporting the agricultural student career guidance and mentorship bootcamp initiative

This year’s bootcamp is being supported by ADB, Jobberman,Agricultural Manufacturing Group , Kofi Vinyo, Kofi Ansah (Ahodwo Farms),Holland Akokor, Lexvee Agro-processing and some of Agrihouse Foundation’s women in agribusiness beneficiaries including Mama Abigial Gyama, Janet Adade, Queen Gafaratu Enterprise, Ayden Ventures, Nanvee Natural Foods, Vinolia Wealth Foods, ZLB Enterprise, Bebefu ventures ,WEID ventures

Believe in your capacity to affect change -Hon Fiifi Kwettey to 7th AG-STUD Bootcampers

Believe in your capacity to affect change -Hon Fiifi Kwettey to 7th AG-STUD Bootcampers

The Former Minister For Food And Agriculture , Hon Fiifi Kwettey ,have encouraged  agricultural student and beginner agribusinesses  to believe in themselves to be able to affect change in the country and the world at large .

Giving a Agri Pep Talk on the topic “Activating Your Purpose Through Self-Actualization as a Beginner,”at the 7th Agricultural Student Carrer  Gauidance And Mentorship Dialogue Bootcamp By Agrihouse Foundation ,  Hon. Fiifi Kwettey urged the student and beginner agribusinesses  to believe in their capacity to effect change. He emphasized the transformative power of self-belief and encouraged them to harness their potential to make a meaningful impact in the agricultural sector.

He underscored the importance of self-awareness, passion  and purpose-driven action, emphasizing that every individual possesses the ability to enact positive change within their spheres of influence.

“You must be determined to change the story of Ghana. Every action we take today shapes the narrative of tomorrow. Let us harness our collective determination to cultivate a future where prosperity, innovation, and sustainability flourish across our nation.”he added

Addressing the challenges commonly faced by beginners in the agricultural industry, Hon. Fiifi Kwettey shared personal anecdotes and practical insights. He encouraged participants to embrace failure as a stepping stone to success, highlighting the importance of resilience and perseverance in navigating the complexities of entrepreneurship.

The AG-STUD Bootcamp, known for its commitment to providing guidance and mentorship to agricultural students and novice agri-entrepreneurs, serves as a catalyst for fostering innovation and excellence in the sector. Through engaging dialogues and interactive sessions, the event aims to equip participants with the knowledge, skills, and inspiration needed to thrive in the dynamic field of agriculture.

As Hon. Fiifi Kwettey concluded his address, a sense of empowerment permeated the room. His call to activate one’s purpose through self-actualization resonated deeply with the students, igniting a newfound sense of determination and purpose among the bootcampers.

Youth Encouraged to See Agriculture as a Viable Career Choice

Youth Encouraged to See Agriculture as a Viable Career Choice

Mr. James Boateng, the 2018 National Best Farmer have called on the youth to consider agriculture as a viable career choice.

Delivering an engaging agri-ted talk titled “The Beginning of My Farming Journey” at the ongoing Agricultural Student Career Guidance and Mentorship Bootcamp held at the GNAT Hall, Mr. Boateng shared his personal journey into agriculture, urging aspiring agri-entrepreneurs to embark on their farming ventures with passion and determination.

Emphasizing the significance of perceiving agriculture as a promising career option, he debunked prevalent misconceptions and underscored the vast potential inherent in the agricultural sector. Drawing from his wealth of experience, he illuminated the array of opportunities available to budding farmers and agripreneurs, urging them to approach agriculture with passion and innovation.

‘’I have been in the corporate field for 30 years and I can tell you leaving the corporate job and venturing into agriculture was the best decision I have ever made, now I am making more money from agriculture than I was making in the corporate world. he added

Mr. James Boateng’s poignant Agri-Ted Talk served as a compelling testament to the boundless possibilities within the agricultural landscape and underscores the pivotal role of nurturing emerging agri-leaders. With steadfast determination and unwavering dedication, the youth stand poised to catalyze transformative change and spearhead socio-economic progress in Ghana through agriculture.

This year’s bootcamp is being supported by ADB, Jobberman, Kofi Vinyo, Kofi Ansah (Ahodwo Farms), holland akokor, Lexvee Agro-processing and some of Agrihouse Foundation’s women in agribusiness beneficiaries including Mama Abigial Gyama, Janet Adade, Queen Gafaratu Enterprise, Ayden Ventures, Nanvee Natural Foods, Vinolia Wealth Foods, ZLB Enterprise, Bebefu ventures ,WEID ventures.

Let Work to Change Negative Misconception About Agriculture Among the Youth

Let Work to Change Negative Misconception About Agriculture Among the Youth

The Director of The Directorate of Crop Service at The Ministry of Food and Agriculture Dr Solomon Gyan have called on the urgent need to dispel misconceptions surrounding agriculture that portray farmers as uneducated and agricultural work as physically demanding with minimal financial rewards.

Speaking on behave of the Minister For Food And Agriculture,Hon Brain  Acheampong  at the on-going agricultural student career guidance mentorship bootcamp at the gnat hall in Accra, Dr. Ansah, urged stakeholders to help support the ministry of food and agriculture to help change these perceptions among the youth through education, empowerment, and youth mentorships engagement.

By fostering enthusiasm and investment in the agricultural sector among the youth they will contribute to building a more resilient, innovative, and sustainable agricultural ecosystem

‘’agriculture has excess job opportunities, from research to sustainable environmental practices, financial management and technological engineering, agriculture today presents a rich tapestry of opportunities waiting to be explored by the youth. He added

He commended Agrihouse Foundation for the AG-STUD bootcamp initiative underscoring its pivotal role in nurturing a deeper understanding and appreciation for agriculture and agribusiness among young individuals.

This year’s bootcamp is being supported by ADB, Jobberman,AMG, Kofi Vinyo, Kofi Ansah (Ahodwo Farms), holland akokor, Lexvee Agro-processing and some of Agrihouse Foundation’s women in agribusiness beneficiaries including Mama Abigial Gyama, Janet Adade, Queen Gafaratu Enterprise, Ayden Ventures, Nanvee Natural Foods, Vinolia Wealth Foods, ZLB Enterprise, Bebefu ventures ,WEID ventures,

Patron Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings to Lead Conversations on Accelerating Efforts in Advancing and Enabling Career Opportunities for Agri Youth

Patron Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings to Lead Conversations on Accelerating Efforts in Advancing and Enabling Career Opportunities for Agri Youth

The Patron of the annual Agricultural Students’ Career Guidance & Mentorship Dialogue-Bootcamp (AGSTUD Africa), Hon. Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, is set to lead conversations on accelerating efforts in advancing and enabling career opportunities for Agri Youth at the Day 1, of the Agricultural students career guidance and mentorship dialogue bootcamp, which officially opens on Monday, May 20, 2024.

About 300 students and beginner agribusinesses are already on their way to accra today from various institutions across the country to begin the bootcamp.

The 6-days bootcamp is expected to contribute in shaping the mindsets of campers, to innovatively and practically embrace and understand the dynamics and career options and opportunities to explore within the agribusiness value chain.

Participating Agricultural Students and Beginner Agribusinesses this year include students from Adidome Agricultural  College, Asuansi Farm Institute, Damango Agric College, Ejura Agricultural College, Kwadaso Agric College, Wenchi Agricultural College, Ohawu Agric College,  Fair River Agric Institute,  others includes  Veterinary College , Animal Health Production,Bunso Cocoa College ,Kita College Of Tropical Agriculture  and Agricultural Technical Institute

 Other Participants Include Students From Kwame Nkrumah University Of Science And Technology, University Of Ghana, University Of Cape Coast, Methodist University, University Of Development Studies, All Nations University, Ghana Christian University College, University Of Energy & Natural Resources, Central University, And University Of Agricultural And Environmental Studies,Accra Technical University ,Koforidua Technical University ,Catholic University ,Christ Apostolic University College ,University Of Professional Studies ,Presbyterian University ,University  Of Environment And Sustainable Development

The Bootcamp Will Also Feature Student From Senior High Schools Including , Accra Academy Senior High,Oreilly Senior High School ,Accra Girls Senior High School ,Labone Senior High School ,Accra High School ,Others Includes Ngleshi Amanfrom Senior High School ,Lapaz Senior High School ,Kinbu Senior High School ,Achimota Senior High School And Ashiaman Senior High School .

For the past seven years, Dr. Zee who is serving as the lead patron of the annual bootcamp, has used her voice to positively influence and advocate for the empowerment of young people through practical, action, innovative and result oriented approaches.

Patron Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings opening session is expected to prepare the minds of the campers, in thinking innovation, when thinking agribusiness. 

Her opening conversation is equally expected to serve as the key driver to enable and support the campers, to position themselves for the other key sessions, that they will be practically involved in, within the 6 days of their stay at the bootcamp.

Already, the youth keep showing and demonstrating, that when supported, equipped and resourced, they will be able to contribute meaningful to the growth, development and transformation of our food systems.  

I have been at the forefront of the bootcamp, since its 1st edition in 2018, I have watched it grow and I am immensely impressed with the number of agric students who have been impacted and transformed through this bootcamp.

This is  practically, the most innovative agric career building platforms the country has now, and I am content with the  holistic approach the camping sessions have over the years adopted to empowering, enabling and establishing our Agri-futures – our youth. Remarked Patron Zanetor Agyemang Rawlings

On her part, Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa, Agrihouse Foundation’s Executive Director highlighted the support and consistency of Patron Dr. Zanetor.

Patron Zanetor is one passionate person, and extremely dedicated to any meaningful cause that contributes to the advancement of the youth across the country.

As our patron since 2018, her commitment has contributed to the growth, transformation and impact of this annual bootcamp.

She is motivated when she sees the youth and the youth are equally motivated, when she is with them.

We remain confident, that her opening session would serve as a booster and prepare and fuel our Campers to creatively  appreciate and adopt innovate ways to developing their agribusiness career paths.  Alberta concluded.

The 6-days bootcamp officially opens on Sunday, May 19, 2024, with the Knowing Me – Knowing You and beginner Business  Grouping sessions respectively.

It continues on Monday, 20th may 2024 ,with the Agri-Ted talk Mentorship dialogues, where we get to see and meet Mr. James Boateng, the 2018 national best farmer, lead a session on how he kick started his farm enterprise.

We also get to hear from other key rural farmers, producers, the Ministry of Food and Agriculture and Agricultural Development Bank, our financial partner, who will lead the A Pesewa A day Mentorship session.

Day Two( 2) is the Ag-Voyage experience, for campers to visit and experience a plantain processing factory in Asamankese, a fertilizer blending plant in Tema and the Tulaku Livestock Market in Ashaiman.

This trip is meant to get them to broaden their horizon on the options and choices they have, in choosing a career in agribusiness.

The evening of Day 2 is the time with business coaches, where the real work begin, they get to share and discuss their business ideas, projects and how coaches can assist them translate  and develop it into sound business concepts

Day 3 is our Agri-inspire session, where our Gold in the soil award recipient, rural women producers, farmers with disabilities among other leading agribusiness entrepreneurs, share their agribusiness modules and practices with the campers.

We also have all the Directorates under the Ministry Of food and Agriculture, who will be present on this day, to share the roles and mandates of the Directorates under MOFA, with the campers, and how their works, aligns and revolve around youth in agricultural development.

The Day five places a high focus on credibility and accountability training sessions, to be led by USAID GTI, GIZ, Yara, Agromonti .

Also to lead the innovative role play session, will be a representative from the World Food Forum Ghana chapter and a representative also from Agromonti.

There will also be other leading competency –based sessions led by the 2023 National best Farmer and other key organization.

The lead session and key highlight to get the campers to prepare, plan and begin developing their bankable ideas will be lead by Jobberman’s lead trainer and consultant, Coach christain Agbesi Tetteh

The   climax for the bootcamp is the   Agri-youth Dialoque , AG-STUD beginner Agribusiness presentation and competition and Input Dealer Business Deal Pitch which gives the students the opportunity to pitch their final business proposals to a panel of judges. The Judges assess the strengths and loopholes of the business plans and make recommendations to better the business idea. The students are presented starter-packs to help them start their businesses.

This year’s bootcamp is supported by Agricultural Development Bank, Jobberman, WEID Ventures, Kofi Vinyo, Kofi Ansah (Ahodwo Farms), Lexvee Agro-processing, and some of Agrihouse Foundation’s women in agribusiness beneficiaries, including Mama Abigial Ghama, Janet Adade, Queen Gafaratu Enterprise, Ayden Ventures, Nanvee Natural Foods, Vinolia Wealth Foods, ZLB Enterprise, and Bebefu Ventures.