The University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR) is playing a key role in the AGRECOFARM Project, a European Union-funded initiative under the Erasmus+ Programme for Capacity Building in Higher Education. The project, which began on 1st December 2023 and is scheduled to end on 30th November 2026, aims to transform agriculture in West Africa through academic innovation, research, and policy engagement.
UENR, alongside Dr. Hilla Limann Technical University and four other partner institutions across West Africa, is implementing new Master’s programmes in Agroecology and Sustainable Agricultural Technologies. These programs are designed to train a new generation of agricultural professionals with the knowledge and skills to increase productivity while ensuring environmental sustainability.
In his welcome remarks, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Energy and Natural Resources, Professor Elvis Asare-Bediako, emphasized that the AGRECOFARM project aligns perfectly with the university’s mission: “To promote the development of human resources and skills required to solve critical energy and natural resource challenges, and to undertake interdisciplinary academic research and outreach in science, engineering, economics, and environmental policy.”
He highlighted that the project is a timely intervention to address pressing agricultural and environmental challenges such as climate change, environmental pollution, soil degradation, and loss of soil fertility. He also announced the development of an MPhil programme in Agroecology and Food Systems, which is currently in the final stages of accreditation with the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC).
Prof. Asare-Bediako further revealed that a lecture hall at the Okuafo Pa Agribusiness Centre has been transformed into the Agrecofarm Laboratory, a key infrastructure under the project. He expressed appreciation to the European Union and the AGRECOFARM project sponsors for the newly completed facility and the equipment provided.
Speaking at the event, the Project Coordinator, Prof. Pietro Picuno, outlined the broader goals of AGRECOFARM. These include enhancing sustainable and eco-friendly food production, improving food quality and safety, reducing the environmental impact of agriculture, and contributing to the well-being of rural and urban communities.
Prof. Picuno also noted that the project aims to equip policymakers, managers, and planners with tools to support long-term agricultural sustainability and food system improvements across the region. He added that the European Union sees AGRECOFARM as a vital platform for strengthening cooperation between Africa and Europe, with lasting impacts on food security and economic development.
At its midpoint, the project has met all key milestones, with significant progress reported in Ghana and other participating countries. In addition to activities in Sierra Leone, a final regional conference is scheduled for 2026 in Nigeria.
UENR’s involvement in the AGRECOFARM project underscores its ongoing commitment to innovation in agriculture, environmental stewardship, and regional academic collaboration.
