In a significant move to support Ghana’s cocoa farmers, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has announced a new initiative to provide free university education for the children of cocoa farmers. This pledge was made during the Farmers’ Day celebrations in the Odotobri Constituency of the Ashanti Region.

Dr. Bawumia, who is also the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) for the upcoming December 7 general elections, outlined the details of this ambitious plan. He emphasized that the initiative aims to replace the existing Senior High School (SHS) cocoa scholarship program, which has become redundant with the implementation of the Free SHS policy2.

Addressing a gathering of farmers, Dr. Bawumia explained that the funds currently allocated for SHS scholarships would be redirected to cover tertiary education costs for the children of cocoa farmers. “Initially, COCOBOD provided scholarships for the children of cocoa farmers to attend Senior High Schools. However, with the introduction of the free Senior High School (SHS) policy, every child can now attend SHS at no cost,” he stated.

Dr. Bawumia further elaborated that starting next year, COCOBOD will take over the responsibility of paying university fees for cocoa farmers’ children. This move is expected to empower Ghana’s agricultural communities and expand economic opportunities by enabling the children of cocoa farmers to pursue higher education and vocational training3.

The Vice President also addressed concerns raised by the Chief of Odotobri, Nana Adu Darko, regarding the deplorable state of farmlands and the impact of climate change on farming. Dr. Bawumia assured the community that new technologies would be employed to address these issues and support sustainable agriculture.

This commitment to free tertiary education is seen as a meaningful, long-term support to families whose work sustains Ghana’s leading export industry. It sets a new vision for education in Ghana, providing hope and opportunities for the future generations of cocoa farmers2.