Ghana faces a 13.9% youth unemployment rate, with over 50% of employed youths underemployed. Despite negative perceptions of farming as a low-skill profession, a study reveals that 76.7% of young Ghanaians are interested in agriculture, particularly through innovative practices. Policymakers are urged to promote agribusiness education and support youth involvement in sustainable farming despite climate challenges.
Ghana faces a significant youth unemployment rate, currently at 13.9%. Additionally, more than half of employed young individuals are underemployed, often in jobs that do not utilize their education or skills. The Ghanaian government perceives agriculture as a viable sector for young people, promoting initiatives such as the Ministry of Food and Agriculture’s policies aimed at enhancing youth employment in agriculture.
The average age of Ghanaian farmers is 55 years, raising concerns about the future workforce in agriculture. To address this, I have researched young people’s involvement in agriculture and the role of innovations in strengthening agrarian systems amid climate change challenges. Earlier studies indicated that many young individuals view farming as a low-skill profession associated with poverty and hard labor, thus deterring them from pursuing agriculture.
In light of climate change, I sought to understand whether extreme weather events influenced young people’s decisions to engage in farming. Working with a research team, we surveyed 511 young Ghanaians, discovering that a majority expressed interest in agricultural careers despite their experiences with climate variability. Remarkably, climate extremes, such as floods and droughts, did not significantly deter youth from agriculture; instead, many were attracted to innovative agricultural practices that enhance resilience against climate impacts.
Our findings indicate a striking 76.7% of respondents support the notion of farming. This suggests that governmental strategies should realign to present agriculture as a promising and modern career path for the youth. Establishing training centers focused on utilizing agricultural innovations could enhance youth participation in farming.
Additionally, we analyzed perceptions about climate change’s impact on agriculture, revealing that negative views hinder youth participation. Climate events that reduce yields and increase pests contribute to these perceptions, with effects such as heightened food insecurity influencing decision-making. Conversely, advancements in farming technology fostered positive perceptions among young participants, instilling confidence in their ability to adapt to climate change.
Our research also assessed the emotional responses of youth towards climate issues. Rather than being universally negative, many held optimistic views, which correlated with a greater willingness to engage in agribusiness. Various factors, including urban residency, access to land, training, and social connections in agriculture, also positively influenced the decision to farm.
This research underscores the appeal of agribusiness, which incorporates financial management, marketing, and strategic planning into farming. Encouraging the adoption of advanced farming technologies, such as hydroponics, is crucial for attracting young individuals to the field. Policymakers should capitalize on these interests to promote climate-smart agribusiness practices broadly.
It is advisable that the government identifies successful young agripreneurs to serve as role models. This tactic may reshape perceptions of agriculture by demonstrating the business potential in the sector. Establishing demonstration farms and experiential training programs is essential for equipping the youth with the necessary skills to thrive in agribusiness under changing climate conditions.
Lastly, equitable access to training and credit, particularly for young women, is imperative. Adequately resourcing training facilities focused near agricultural hubs will significantly enhance the capabilities of Ghana’s youth, preparing them for sustainable careers in farming amidst the realities of climate change.
In summary, while Ghana faces challenges with youth unemployment, the potential for young individuals to engage in agriculture remains strong. The study indicates that many young Ghanaians are interested in farming, especially when supported by innovations and positive climate perceptions. By reframing agriculture as a viable career and implementing robust training programs, there is a substantial opportunity to enhance youth participation in this critical sector. Addressing barriers and promoting equitable access to resources is essential for maximizing this potential.
Original Source: theconversation.com
