The United Nations University Institute for Natural Resources in Africa (UNU-INRA) has launched a special capacity-building training programme to equip young ladies with practical skills in agricultural technologies.

The training on the theme “Renewable Energy Integration into Agritech Design for Climate-Smart Solutions,” focused on integrating renewable energy technologies such as solar, wind and biogas into agri-tech designs to develop climate-smart solutions.

The initiative was introduced to address the limited participation of women in the technical design aspects of agricultural innovations. It included a call to empower women to develop solutions that promote sustainable agriculture and clean energy integration.

Empowering women in agri-tech

Speaking at the training, the Project Coordinator, Dr Ferdinand Tornyie, said the programme addressed a critical skills gap in the agricultural sector.

He stated that, although many women were actively involved in farming and agribusiness, very few participated in the core technical design of agri-tech innovations.

“This training seeks to change that narrative by equipping young women not just to use technologies but to design and adapt them to meet the unique challenges faced in their communities,” he stated.

Dr Tornyie noted that as Africa faces increasing threats from climate change, sustainable agricultural practices are no longer optional but vital.

He further noted that integrating renewable energy solutions into agricultural technologies will boost productivity and assist Ghana’s transition to a low-carbon economy.

“Technologies like solar-powered irrigation, biogas systems for processing and wind-powered storage facilities can transform rural agriculture, improve food security and reduce reliance on non-renewable energy sources,” he said.

Broader goals

Dr Tornyie mentioned that the training was to promote inclusivity in the green innovation space.

“Women make up about 50 per cent of the agricultural labour force, yet they are underrepresented in technical innovation and design.

By empowering them with these skills, we are not only closing gender gaps but also ensuring that solutions developed reflect the needs of those who form the backbone of agricultural production,” he said.

The training brought together participants from diverse educational and professional backgrounds, which included students from universities and technical institutions, entrepreneurs already engaged in agribusiness, and individuals with artistic and design skills.