Bolgatanga Technical University has reaffirmed its commitment to ecological agriculture as its niche academic and research area, with management pledging to train graduates who will champion sustainable food production and environmental stewardship.
Speaking at the university’s matriculation ceremony, Pro Vice-Chancellor Prof. Peter Osei Boamah explained that each technical university in Ghana is assigned a niche area to guide its academic and research focus, with BTU’s specialization being ecological agriculture.
According to him, ecological agriculture promotes sustainable farming systems that work in harmony with nature, prioritising soil health, biodiversity and ecosystem resilience, while avoiding the use of synthetic fertilizers, pesticides and genetically modified organisms.
“Bolgatanga Technical University is expected to be a centre of excellence in ecological agriculture by advancing sustainable food production systems that harmonise with natural processes,” he said.
Prof. Boamah noted that all Bachelor of Technology students will, in their first year, be introduced to the principles of sustainable farming, regardless of their chosen discipline. He stressed that students are expected to integrate ecological sustainability into their respective fields of study.
He added that the university’s focus on ecological agriculture aligns with the realities of northern Ghana, where livelihoods are closely tied to agriculture and environmental sustainability is critical to long-term development.
Advising the matriculants, Prof. Boamah urged them to be disciplined, time-conscious and focused on their academic goals. He cautioned students against negative habits and peer pressure, reminding them that academic freedom comes with responsibility.
“The university environment can either shape or destroy you. Resolve today to leave this institution a better person than you arrived,” he advised.
The Pro Vice-Chancellor assured students of management’s commitment to making their stay at BTU rewarding and transformative, as the university continues to position itself as a key driver of technical education, sustainable agriculture and industrial development in Ghana.
Source: A1 Radio | 101.1Mhz | Joshua Asaah | Sumbrungu
