Tune after tune of patriotic and popular local melodies peeled off the blaring instruments of the brass band, as groups and patrons did justice to the songs with frenzied borborbor and free-style dance moves. Beneath rows of canopies arranged with near-military precision and draped in the national colours sat dignitaries, members of the diplomatic corps, representatives of government agencies, non-profits, civil society organisations (CSOs), the inky fraternity, and people from all walks of life.

The occasion was the 41st National Farmers’ Day Celebration, held at the Ho Sports Stadium. Themed “Feed Ghana, Eat Ghana, Secure the Future,” the event crowned a five-day agricultural fair showcasing innovations in crop production, livestock, mechanisation, fisheries, irrigation, and digital agriculture.

Amidst the vibrant displays of agricultural produce and rhythmic celebrations in honour of Ghana’s farmers, a different kind of cultivation was taking place at the Nkabom Collaborative at the University of Ghana’s exhibition stand, which attracted patronage from a wide range of stakeholders.

Of particular interest were Junior and Senior High School students from Ho and surrounding communities, whose engagement revealed the vast opportunities a future career in the agri-food system hold.

“Many students initially saw agriculture as a static field; something distant or purely traditional,” explained a member of the Nkabom team on the ground. “Our role became about connecting the dots, and now they see this isn’t far-fetched.”

A senior high school student, after learning about the Collaborative’s youth innovation programmes, remarked, “I didn’t know there were programmes like this that young people can join early to learn about agriculture and entrepreneurship.” Another added, “If we have more engagements like this from institutions such as yours, students will be better guided in their subject choices, realising there are multiple career paths to pursue.”

Beyond student engagement, the fair also opened space for exploring collaboration opportunities. Institutions such as the CABI, West Africa Centre and the Animal Welfare League identified potential areas of synergy with the Collaborative.

“It is in these spaces that you move from being separate entities to potential partners in a shared mission,” noted the Collaborative Lead, Prof. Richmond Aryeetey. “We will follow up with dialogues on areas where partnerships can be deepened for the greater goal of transforming the agri-food system, with Ghanaian youth at the centre.”

The Volta Fair, organised as part of the 41st Farmers’ Day Celebration by national and regional stakeholders, brought together farmers, institutions, development partners, students, and the general public. UG Nkabom participated as an exhibitor to showcase its work, raise awareness, engage young people, and explore partnership opportunities within the agricultural and development ecosystem.

Through its participation, the Collaborative strengthened its visibility, educated young people on pathways within agriculture and innovation, and contributed meaningfully to the national celebration of farmers and their role in Ghana’s development.