Ghana faces high youth unemployment, prompting government efforts to attract young individuals to agriculture. Research indicates that despite climate change concerns, most youth are interested in farming due to agricultural innovations. Policymakers should promote agribusiness and establish training centers to equip youth with essential skills, particularly focusing on young women and access to credit.
Ghana is currently experiencing a high youth unemployment rate of approximately 13.9%. Among employed young Ghanaians, over 50% are underemployed, engaging in jobs that do not utilize their skills or education fully. The Ghanaian government identifies agriculture as a vital sector with potential for youth engagement, exemplified by initiatives such as the Ministry of Food and Agriculture’s youth in agriculture policy and related job creation programs aimed at attracting young individuals to this field.
The average age of Ghanaian farmers is approximately 55 years, raising concerns regarding the future workforce in agriculture. Comprehensive research has been conducted to examine the factors influencing young people’s participation in agriculture, particularly in the context of climate change and its impacts on farming. Earlier studies indicated that many young individuals perceive agricultural work negatively, viewing it as menial and unattractive, contributing to the aversion towards this occupation.
This research further sought to understand whether climate change events—such as floods, droughts, and temperature increases—affect young individuals’ decisions to pursue farming. The study involved surveys of 511 young Ghanaians and revealed an encouraging finding: a majority were interested in engaging in agriculture. Specifically, experiencing extreme climate events did not significantly deter youth from considering agriculture as a viable career option.
Indeed, many young people are motivated by innovations in agricultural practices that enhance resilience to climate-related disasters. This diverges from prior studies that suggested overwhelming discouragement among youth. The research indicated that 76.7% of participants expressed a willingness to engage in agribusiness, suggesting a necessity for governments to promote agriculture as a financially viable and innovative career choice that embraces technology.
Assessing perceptions about climate change’s impact on agriculture indicated that negative views could lead to decreased youth participation in agribusiness. Participants associated climate-related phenomena with reduced crop outputs, leading to heightened food insecurity and rural poverty. Nonetheless, advancements in agricultural technology fostered positive perceptions among youth, who felt that these innovations might help alleviate challenges related to climate change.
Moreover, emotional responses to climate issues varied among youth. Those displaying positive feelings towards climate change were more likely to engage in agriculture. Other factors influencing young people’s interest included geographic location and access to land. Notably, a higher percentage of youth favoring farming (69.3%) were urban residents.
The potential appeal of agribusiness—encompassing financial management and strategic marketing—might entice more young individuals into farming. Introducing advanced agricultural technologies, such as hydroponics and aquaponics, can stimulate interest among the younger population. Policymakers must expedite the development of climate-smart agricultural innovations and reshape perceptions of farming to include business-savvy approaches.
Additionally, recognizing successful youth agripreneurs as role models can shift perceptions and motivate others in their community. Establishing demonstration farms can further revolutionize agricultural practices in Ghana, providing practical insights into successful agribusiness models.
Training programs focusing on experiential learning in agribusiness should be implemented close to agricultural hubs. Furthermore, introducing well-resourced training centers will empower young farmers with essential business, technological, communication, networking, and marketing skills. Emphasizing support for young women in these initiatives is crucial, as is improving access to credit for emerging farmers.
In summary, Ghana’s youth face significant challenges in employment, yet many show a willingness to engage in agriculture, particularly through agribusiness. Despite concerns related to climate change, innovative agricultural practices are attracting interest. Policymakers are urged to modernize agriculture, emphasize its potential as a career, and provide necessary training to empower young individuals. Cultivating successful youth agripreneurs can reshape perceptions and enhance overall participation in the sector, ultimately contributing to the economy’s growth.
Original Source: theconversation.com
