The Government of Ghana is set to establish a new tertiary institution, the University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, in Kintampo in the Bono East Region.

The move which was announced by the Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, is aimed at supporting agricultural modernisation and providing higher education opportunities for the region.

The minister made the announcement during the official inauguration of the Governing Council of the Simon Diedong Dombo University of Business and Integrated Development Studies on May 12, 2025.

He explained that the bill to establish the new university would be laid before Parliament once it reconvenes, as part of government’s broader agenda to expand access to higher education across all regions, according to a 3news.com report on May 12, 2025.

“It is the desire of government that every region of Ghana will be host to one higher education institution of learning. It is the dream and desire of President Mahama that in each region there will be an established university”, he indicated.

Agriculture has remained a top priority on Ghana’s development agenda for more than two decades.

However, experts have consistently raised concerns about the sector’s slow pace of modernisation and limited investment in research and innovation, factors that continue to affect productivity and food security.

The new university is expected to address some of these concerns by providing specialised training and research in agricultural science and life sciences. It will also contribute to youth empowerment and support the national agricultural strategy by producing skilled graduates for the sector.

During the event, the minister also pledged renewed government support for the SD Dombo University, particularly through the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund).

“SD Dombo has not seen any significant support, in terms of infrastructure. I am happy to announce that this year government through the GETFund will make available some seed money for SD Dombo University as part of President Mahama’s quest to support the institution to grow,” he stated.

Chairman of the Governing Council, Dr Benjamin Kumbour, welcomed the announcement and pledged to work closely with local communities and private stakeholders to support the university’s growth.

“We on our part will also try private initiatives and see how the local community of the region will also be encouraged to bring their contributions to develop the university,” he assured.

MRA/VPO

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