Group Chief Executive Officer of Agri-Impact Limited, Mr. Dan Acquaye, has underscored the immense potential of agriculture to create jobs for young people and accelerate Ghana’s economic growth.

He believes that with the right investments and targeted programmes, the sector can address food security challenges while empowering the youth with practical skills.

Mr. Acquaye, speaking to the media during the Young Agribusiness Professionals (YAPP) Programme Awards Ceremony in Accra, emphasised that agriculture remains one of the most critical sectors for national development, particularly in creating employment opportunities.

He noted that Ghana continues to rely heavily on food imports, a situation that could be reversed through strategic interventions in value chains such as rice, tomatoes, and poultry.

According to him, while universities and agricultural training colleges play a vital role in preparing students, many of them lack adequate practical resources to provide hands-on training.

He therefore called for stronger support systems and partnerships to bridge this gap.

He further proposed a reorientation of the National Service Scheme to maximise the skills of personnel.

Instead of perceiving service postings as punishment, he suggested deploying graduates to institutions and programmes where their expertise could make tangible contributions to the agricultural sector.

Highlighting a changing narrative around agriculture, the Agri-Impact CEO observed that many young people are beginning to develop an interest in agribusiness training and services. He believes this shift signals hope for the sector’s transformation.

The Young Agribusiness Professionals Programme (YAPP), also known as YPP Agribusiness, is a national initiative operated by Agri-Impact Limited, designed to train and equip National Service personnel and other young people with modern agribusiness skills. 

The programme aims to empower the youth with relevant expertise, foster innovation, and create employment opportunities within Ghana’s agricultural sector.

Over the years, YAPP has produced several cohorts of trainees who have benefited from mentorship, technical training, and field experience.

Many have been recognised with awards for their contributions and achievements in agribusiness, underscoring the programme’s impact in nurturing the next generation of agricultural leaders.

With increased investment in agricultural education, practical training, and targeted schemes like YAPP, Mr. Acquaye stressed that Ghana could boost food production, reduce imports, and open up sustainable employment opportunities for its growing youth population.

Also at the event was the  Director of the National Service Secretariat, Mrs. Ruth Dela Seddoh, who commended Agri-Impact Limited and its partners for successfully organising the Young Agribusiness Professionals (YAPP) Program Awards Ceremony 

Mrs. Seddoh praised the organisers for their commitment and dedication in seeing the program through to completion. 

She said recognising and celebrating the achievements of young people in agribusiness is vital, as it reflects appreciation for their efforts and inspires others to follow suit.

She further congratulated the participants who completed their training and were honoured at the ceremony, noting that their achievements demonstrate hard work, resilience, and a growing passion for agribusiness among Ghana’s youth.

According to Mrs. Seddoh, acknowledging such efforts not only motivates the individuals involved but also boosts morale and fosters a culture of excellence within the National Service Scheme and beyond.

Mrs. Seddoh reaffirmed the Secretariat’s support for initiatives like YAPP, stressing that celebrating achievements is key to motivating youth and advancing national development.