Kumasi, June 27, 2019. 24 Agriculture Extension Advisors and 26 Agricultural College Tutors have been certified by HortiFresh through Wageningen University & Research for successfully graduating from the 1st Hortifresh capacity strengthening training. The Graduation ceremony took place at the Kwaadaso Agriculture College on Thursday, June 27, 2019 where Wageningen Diploma Certificates were handed out to graduands by the Netherlands Ambassador to Ghana, H.E. Mr. Ron Strikker.

The aim of the training is to create a sustainable approach of Capacity Development of Agriculture Extension Agents and Tutors who have a major role to play in strengthening the skills of agronomists and farmers for good agricultural practices for the fruit and vegetable sector in Ghana.

The HortiFresh capacity strengthening activity has been designed to improve farmer productivity and postharvest management. The 3-months in-depth Training Course focused on 6 key areas: seedling production, crop protection, spray techniques, irrigation and fertilization, production planning and adult learning. The Senior Agronomy Trainer from Wageningen UR, Herman de Putter, told the audience that “through following the steps of the Training Course, farmers can easily double their production while using the same amount of land. It’s all about getting the basics right!”

Speaking at the graduation ceremony, the Netherlands Ambassador to Ghana, H.E. Mr. Ron Strikker, highlighted the role of the Extension Agents and Tutors towards the growth of the fruit and vegetable sector. He explained that their role is crucial in improving the skills of Agronomists and farmers for a competitive sector. He encouraged the graduands to make the most out of the opportunity by monitoring closely activities of farmers and student agronomists in their various areas and jurisdiction.

Participants of the training were tutors selected from the Kwaadaso, Ohawu, Ejura and Damango Agriculture Colleges as well as the Adidome, Asuansi and Wenchi Farm Institutes. In addition, tutors from the Kumasi Institute of Tropical Agriculture, Ho Technical University, West Africa Centre for Crop Improvement (WACCI) and Agriculture Extension Agents from Akomadan, Afrancho, Keta, Denu and Greater Accra were included.

Following the training sessions, the graduates will work with about 50 farmers each in an effort to impart knowledge widely and contribute to ensuring good agricultural practices are adhered to.

Presently, a second session of training for private agronomists and extension providers is being prepared to commence in September.