MTN Ghana, in partnership with the University of Ghana School of Agriculture, has launched a technology-driven Vegetable Excellence Programme designed to blend classroom learning with hands-on agricultural training while using digital tools to modernise farming.
Speaking during a visit to the project site, Mr Stephen Blewette, Chief Executive Officer of MTN Ghana, described the initiative as “an amazing project” that gives students and young farmers full-cycle exposure from theory, to greenhouse production, to open-field cultivation.
He said the collaboration demonstrates how technology can make agriculture more attractive to the youth.
“You see the classrooms for training, then the greenhouse to understand how it works, then the fields behind us where you apply it. When you add technology, farming becomes exciting for the younger generation,” he said.
Mr Blewette explained that MTN has introduced digital systems, including soil sensors and automated irrigation controls, to help farmers adopt precision agriculture.
“Farming is often a gamble. You invest in inputs and hope the weather, insects, or animals do not destroy it. But with technology, you reduce the gamble. You become more focused, more efficient,” he noted.
He added that MTN is exploring digital platforms to help farmers sell directly to consumers using e-commerce channels.
“Digital tools can help farmers reach markets faster. That is how we create real economic opportunities,” he said.
The CEO praised the increasing interest of young people in agriculture, saying it aligns with Ghana’s food security ambitions.
“As the President said, we must stand on our own two feet and produce enough for Ghana, Africa, and the world. Seeing young people here gives me confidence,” he added.
Madam Adwoa Wiafe, Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer at MTN Ghana, said the project reflects MTN’s commitment to using digital technology to solve some of Ghana’s biggest challenges, including food security.
She said the programme offers students a new way of learning, one that is practical, technology-led, and tied to real results.
“We are already seeing impact. Students are learning differently, and the outcomes will extend beyond the university. People outside will also benefit as this becomes a centre of excellence,” she said.
Madam Wiafe highlighted MTN’s environmental commitments, including efforts to cut carbon emissions and support resilient agricultural systems.
“Our sustainability agenda demands that we contribute to society, the environment, and economic development. This project fits perfectly within that mission,” she said.
She emphasised that MTN is not becoming a farming business but a partner helping national priorities succeed.
“Whatever is a national priority must also be an MTN priority. That is why we are supporting agriculture. We believe in partnerships to scale impact,” she added.
Madam Wiafe encouraged partners and students not to lose momentum.“We must nurture this vision and make the impact we are talking about. MTN is ready to support any idea that promotes development,” she said.
The project forms part of MTN’s broader sustainability agenda, which aims to empower communities through digital transformation, skills development and climate-smart initiatives.
