A study reveals resilience among Ghana’s youth in farming despite climate challenges. With youth unemployment at 13.9%, agriculture is seen as a viable opportunity. Research shows that floods and droughts do not deter interest, with 76.7% favoring farming. Urban youth and land access enhance engagement, suggesting the need to rebrand farming as a tech-savvy career and establish training centers.
A recent study in Ghana has uncovered an unexpected resilience among the youth regarding agricultural participation, despite the challenges posed by climate change. With youth unemployment at 13.9% and over 50% experiencing underemployment, agriculture presents a viable opportunity, especially as the average age of farmers nears 55 years.
Research conducted with 511 young Ghanaians indicates that environmental factors such as floods, droughts, and heat do not significantly impede their interest in agriculture. Notably, 76.7% of the participants expressed a preference for farming, bolstered by positive emotions regarding climate and the adoption of innovative technologies.
Furthermore, urban youth and better access to land are vital factors that stimulate engagement in agricultural activities. The study encourages a rebranding of farming as a modern, technology-driven career to attract more young individuals. Additionally, establishing training centers should be a key strategy to foster an interest among the younger generation in farming.
This study demonstrates the resilience of Ghana’s youth in the face of climate change, highlighting agriculture as a critical sector for employment. By fostering positive climate attitudes and leveraging technology, there is significant potential to engage young people in farming. Establishing training programs and changing perceptions about agriculture can further enhance participation and address the challenges of an aging agricultural workforce.
Original Source: iafrica.com
