The Institute of Applied Science and Technology (IAST) marked a significant milestone on December 28, 2023, with the commissioning of a new mechanised borehole at the University of Ghana's Environdome Greenhouse Training Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship.
This latest addition, made possible through Société Générale Ghana's Corporate Social Responsibility and Sustainability Development Programme, aims to tackle water supply challenges and enhance the operational efficiency of the greenhouse facility.
During the ceremony, Prof. David Dodoo-Arhin, the Director of IAST, emphasised the five focal areas adopted by the Institute, including natural resource management, energy and climate change mitigation, indigenous knowledge and health management, food processing, packaging, and agribusiness, aligning with sustainable development goals.
Prof. Dodoo-Arhin said, “In achieving the overall objectives, the Institute has adopted five focal areas, natural resource management, energy and climate change mitigation, indigenous knowledge and health management, food processing, packaging and agribusiness with linkages to the sustainable development goals.”
Prof. David Dodoo-Arhin, Director of IAST
The IAST Director highlighted the borehole's role in addressing water supply challenges and enhancing food processing capabilities. The facility, he mentioned, is envisioned to serve as a multifaceted centre for business, training and research.
“Water is a fundamental resource for life and agriculture. The erratic water supply challenges we have faced in the past have posed significant obstacles to the optimal functioning of our Greenhouse Vegetable Production Facility. Today’s commissioning marks a turning point in our journey, as we witness the fruition of a partnership that will not only sustain our operation but also empower us to contribute meaningfully to sustainable agriculture,” Prof. Dodoo-Arhin added.
Société Générale Ghana's Managing Director, Mr. Hakim Ouzzani, expressed the pleasure of the bank in contributing to this impactful initiative. He stressed the importance of the borehole in ensuring the operational feasibility of the facility, enabling diverse opportunities for development and growth.
“When you have the water, it gives the opportunity to develop many things and we are happy to have this small contribution, which will help you to develop your experiences and work,” Mr. Ouzzani stated.
As part of the commissioning, a practical demonstration of how the borehole facility operates was carried out by engineers responsible for the drilling of the borehole. Mr. Ouzzani and Prof. Boateng Onwona-Agyeman participated in the ribbon-cutting to signify the official commissioning of the mechanised borehole for use.
Provost of the College of Basic and Applied Sciences, Prof. Boateng Onwona‐Agyeman, conveyed gratitude on behalf of University management and Vice-Chancellor Prof. Nana Aba Appiah Amfo. He emphasised the need for strict maintenance and safety measures, tasking the Institute to put together a dedicated team for that purpose.
Provost of the College of Basic and Applied Sciences, Prof. Boateng Onwona‐Agyeman
Mr. Bright Avuglah, Administrator of IAST in delivering the vote of thanks for the occasion, expressed appreciation to Société Générale for sponsoring the borehole project. He thanked Mr. Hakim Ouzzani, the Managing Director for his personal interest and support for the project.
Mr. Bright Avuglah, Administrator of IAST
The Greenhouse Centre, a hub for industry training, aims to empower both students and non-students exploring opportunities in Agriculture. The Institute of Applied Sciences anticipates a future where this collaboration not only yields abundant harvests but also contributes significantly to broader sustainable development goals.
Under Société Générale Ghana's commitment to sustainable development, the mechanised borehole addresses critical issues faced by the Greenhouse Vegetable Production Facility, such as inconsistent water supply and operational hindrances.
The commissioning is a strategic response to overcome challenges related to water scarcity and irrigation access, particularly vital for optimal crop production.
For over a decade, the Greenhouse facility has been instrumental in cultivating various crops, including cucumbers, tomatoes, lettuce, bell peppers and sweet melons.
