Ghana faces significant youth unemployment, yet a recent study shows a strong interest among young Ghanaians in agriculture, driven by technological innovations despite climate change concerns. Government initiatives aim to attract youth through perceived profitable agribusiness opportunities. Research indicates the importance of reframing agriculture, enhancing training centers, and ensuring financial access, particularly for young women, to sustain youth engagement in this essential sector.
Ghana faces a youth unemployment rate of 13.9%, with over half of employed youths in low-paying, underutilized jobs. Recognizing agriculture as a viable sector for youth employment, the Ghanaian government has implemented policies, such as the youth in agriculture initiative and programs promoting food production and livestock management, to draw young individuals into this field. With an average age of 55 among current farmers, there are growing concerns about the future workforce in agriculture.
Research on young people’s motivations to farm reveals a prevalent negative perception of agriculture, often viewed as menial work requiring minimal skills. Young adults associate farming with poverty and unappealing labor, making it an unattractive career choice. In an effort to understand whether climate change impacts their farming decisions, a study was conducted involving 511 young Ghanaians, querying their experiences and feelings toward farming amidst ecological change.
Surprisingly, the research indicated that despite experiencing climate-related extremes like floods and droughts, most youths retained an interest in agriculture. Approximately 76.7% of participants expressed their willingness to enter farming or agribusiness, contradicting previous beliefs that climate destructiveness would deter them. Youth are intrigued by agricultural innovations aimed at combatting climate challenges, indicating that advancements can positively influence their decisions to engage in this sector.
This study also examined how youths perceive climate change’s impact on farming viability, suggesting those holding negative views regarding climate issues are less likely to pursue agricultural careers. Conversely, awareness of technological solutions led to optimism among many participants about adapting farming practices to withstand climate variability. Thus, a positive view of these innovations enhances the youth’s motivation to enter the agricultural arena.
Moreover, emotional responses play a significant role in determining youth participation in agriculture. The research discovered that youths with positive feelings regarding climate change are more inclined to get involved in farming, while those burdened with anxiety and fear about the climate are often discouraged. Understanding these psychological factors is paramount in cultivating young interest in the agricultural sector.
Several factors were identified as influential in the decision-making process regarding agricultural engagement. Urban residents showed a higher inclination towards farming, with 69.3% of young supporters coming from cities. Access to land is crucial, as only 64% of these young people can farm, and a scant 35.2% have received any sort of agribusiness training. Individuals who have participated in training programs or whose family backgrounds are rooted in agriculture exhibit a higher propensity to pursue these careers.
For policymakers, these findings highlight the need for reframing agriculture as a business-oriented venture, emphasizing the fusion of technical skills and business management. By leveraging precision agricultural technologies, such as hydroponics and aquaponics, young people can be attracted to the agricultural profession. With such advancements, the government should expedite the dissemination of climate-smart agricultural practices.
It is essential for the government to promote successful youth “agripreneurs” who can serve as role models within the community. Their experiences can reshape public perception of agriculture as a legitimate and profitable career path. Additionally, creating demonstration farms and resource-rich training centers can enhance knowledge about managing successful agribusinesses amid climate challenges, ultimately inspiring Ghana’s youth to engage in agriculture effectively.
Equally important is prioritizing young women in access to training and resources, enabling them to achieve success within this sector. Improving credit accessibility for young farmers will further bolster their ability to thrive in agriculture, aligning with national objectives to boost youth participation in the industry.
In summary, despite prevalent climate challenges, young Ghanaians show a strong interest in agriculture, motivated by technological innovations and positive personal experiences. The government’s role in reframing agriculture as a prosperous career, promoting successful youth agripreneurs, and enhancing training opportunities is crucial. Addressing the barriers faced, particularly for young women, and improving access to financial resources will be integral to cultivating a vibrant agricultural workforce capable of adapting to climate change.
Original Source: theconversation.com
