The International Association of Students in Agriculture and Related Sciences (IAAS) at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), through their internally generated funds, has established a mushroom production unit on campus.
The project aims to equip members with hands-on agricultural skills, particularly in mushroom cultivation and agripreneurship, while fostering teamwork and leadership.
Initiated under the 2023/2024 IAAS-KNUST administration, the project has been carried forward by successive leaders, demonstrating the association’s commitment to continuity and innovation in student-led agricultural initiatives.
The current president, Kotey Nicholas Lartey, commended the dedication of members and highlighted the broader vision behind the initiative.
“This achievement demonstrates the unity, dedication, and vision of IAAS-KNUST members in translating classroom knowledge into tangible agricultural practice.
We remain committed to completing the subsequent phases of the project and ensuring it becomes a model student-led agripreneurship venture within KNUST and beyond,” he stated.
He further explained that the completion of the initial structure, Phase 1, stands as a strong testament to the association’s perseverance and ingenuity.
“We now face the significant capital requirements for the next crucial step, Phase 2 operationalization.
This phase involves essential procurements, including climate control equipment, specialized shelving, initial mushroom spawns, and bulk substrate materials,” he noted.
According to him, relying solely on internal funds for this next phase could delay the start of production and, consequently, the realization of the sustainable income stream the association envisions.
“We therefore appeal to various organizations, both private and governmental, to partner with us in advancing this initiative that blends academic learning with practical agricultural innovation,” he implored.
In the long term, the mushroom production project is expected to serve as a learning hub for sustainable mushroom cultivation and a modest income source to support future IAAS initiatives and student development activities.
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