Millar Institute Organizes Free Health Outreach in Yikene Community ahead of 10 Year Anniversary
The Millar Institute for Transdisciplinary and Development Studies (MITDS) has organized a remarkable health outreach program for the people of Yikene and the general public as part of its upcoming 10-year anniversary celebration. Apexnewsgh reports The health outreach program drew a massive turnout from community members of all ages. The event was a testament to MITDS’s commitment to giving back to the community, with the planning committee emphasizing the importance of “a healthy life is a wealthy life.” The comprehensive health outreach included blood donation, eye examinations, and dental checks for teeth, nose, and ear, as well as blood pressure screenings. One of the most touching aspects of the event was the special attention given to students, teachers, and the elderly, ensuring that vulnerable groups received the necessary care. The beneficiaries expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Millar Institute for its kindness, with one community member expressing, “We’re thankful for this free health outreach. It’s a blessing to have our health checked and receive treatment.” The health outreach not only marked a significant milestone for the Institute but also highlighted its mission to positively impact the surrounding community. By providing essential health services, MITDS reinforced its role as a responsible and caring institution, demonstrating its dedication to improving lives beyond the classroom. Below are some of the outreach pictures Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen Contact: +233248250270/+233256336062 for your publications
Millar Institute Donates 28 Dual Desks to Yikene Basic School
The Millar Institute for Transdisciplinary and Development Studies is celebrating its 10th anniversary with a heartwarming gesture. Apexnewsgh reports To celebrate this milestone, the institute has generously donated 28 dual desks to Yikene Basic School, underscoring its unwavering commitment to education and corporate social responsibility. During the donation ceremony,Mr. Isaac Dasoberi, a proactive member of the anniversary planning committee, took the opportunity to emphasize the significance of supporting less privileged schools. “Education is our priority,” he passionately stated. “Charity begins at home, and Yikene community is our home.” He said In a touching display of gratitude, Mr. Dasoberi extended acknowledgment to the Yikene Chief for his invaluable support, advice, and interventions over the past decade. Furthermore, he expressed deep appreciation to the schoolteachers for their unwavering dedication. On behalf of Prof. Millar, the institution and the planning committee chairman, Mr. Dasoberi formally presented the donation to the Municipal Education Director ably represented by the PRO Mr. Agunga-Dongo Fredrick Ayine, highlighting the institute’s unwavering commitment to giving back to its community and promoting education. This heartwarming gesture exemplifies the Millar Institute’s dedication to making a positive impact on its community and fostering a culture of learning and development. At the donation ceremony, Madam Patience Iyaaba, Dean of Teachers at Yikene Basic School, took the stage with a confident yet warm smile. She began her speech by expressing profound gratitude to the Millar Institute for Transdisciplinary and Development Studies (MITDS) for their unwavering support. “Thank you so much for the support you have given us,” she began. “Yikene school is a relatively new school, with the Junior High section established only 4-5 years ago. Despite our youth, we’ve achieved tremendous success, thanks to the community, Prof. David Millar, and other supporters.” Madam Iyaaba then painted a vivid picture of the school’s remarkable journey, highlighting its academic accomplishments. She proudly shared that due to the school’s outstanding academic performance and discipline, the enrollment had significantly increased. Moreover, she joyfully announced that the school had achieved outstanding BECE performance, ranking among the top 10 schools in the municipality. Madam Iyaaba attributed these successes to the community’s involvement and the invaluable support of organizations like MITDS. “We’re grateful for this donation of 28 dual desks, which will enhance our learning environment,” Madam Iyaaba said, her voice filled with genuine appreciation. “We wish MITDS a happy 10th anniversary and continued success in their endeavors.” The Bolgatanga Municipal Director of the Ghana Education Service, Agunga-Dongo Frederick Ayine, expressed gratitude to the Millar Institute for Transdisciplinary and Development Studies and Prof. Millar for their generous donation. The municipality was facing a staggering deficit of 9,000 furniture pieces, with only 150 dual desks received from the Government of Ghana that year. This shortfall was even more alarming considering that over 100 furniture pieces became unusable each term. Mr. Ayine emphasized that without community support, the municipality risked falling behind in education. However, there was a beacon of hope. The Millar Institute’s donation marked a significant step towards bridging this gap. Prof. David Millar had been a steadfast supporter of education, previously collaborating with the Municipal Chief Executive to provide furniture to schools. Mr. Ayine acknowledged this effort and urged school teachers to reciprocate the trust placed in them. “To whom much is given, much is expected,” Mr. Ayine reminded the teachers. “Once people are investing in you, it means they have a certain level of trust in you to deliver.” He encouraged the teachers to take good care of the donated furniture, ensuring that the investment yields positive results. This partnership between the Millar Institute and the Bolgatanga Municipal Education Service served as a model for community-driven initiatives that could propel education forward in the region. By working together, they were able to create a brighter future for the students and the community at large. Meanwhile, Yikene Assemblyman, Hon. Asaare Francis Akolbila, was overjoyed as he stood witness to a heartwarming gesture from the Millar Institute. The institute had generously donated 28 dual desks to Yikene Basic School, and Mr. Akolbila couldn’t contain his delight. “The donation is a tremendous relief for our children,” expressed Akolbila, his face beaming with happiness. “For far too long, they’ve had to make do with lying on the floor while learning, which has significantly impacted their educational experience.” Emphasizing the critical need for proper furniture, the assemblyman highlighted its role in creating a conducive learning environment. “This donation will greatly contribute to improving the quality of education in our area,” he stressed. Hon. Akolbila expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Millar Institute, coinciding with their 10th-anniversary celebration. “As you mark this milestone, I pray that God richly blesses you and continues to enhance your institution,” he conveyed with sincerity. The assemblyman’s sentiments resonated with the community’s deep appreciation for the Millar Institute’s unwavering commitment to education and development. This meaningful partnership is poised to leave a lasting impact on Yikene’s youth, empowering them to reach their full potential. The PTA Chairman, Mr. Gilbert Azanto, expressed deep gratitude towards Professor Millar for the generous gift of 28 dual desks from the Millar Institute. “Professor Millar’s kindness has truly brought happiness to our school,” Azanto remarked. “This donation will greatly improve our learning environment.” However, Azanto also used the opportunity to draw attention to other critical needs within the school. Pointing out unfinished projects, he evoked the famous words from Charles Dickens’ beloved novel: “Like Oliver Twist, we ask for more.” Mr. Azanto extended a warm invitation to the people of Yikene and to kind-hearted individuals outside the community to rally behind the school’s development. “We require assistance to finish these projects and ensure our children receive the best possible education.” The PTA chairman’s plea shed light on the ongoing challenges faced by Yikene Basic School. Despite the contribution from the Millar Institute, the school still requires support to address its infrastructure and resource deficiencies. Madam Victoria Aloni of Bolgatanga West Circuit School Improvement and Support Officer (SISO) has expressed heartfelt appreciation for the
Millar Institute Targets District Assemblies to Champion Grass Economy Innovation
Dr. Maxwell Ba-an Tengolzor, a lecturer at the Millar Institute for Transdisciplinary and Development Studies, is leading a project to transform the grass economy in Northern Ghana. Apexnewsgh reports With funding from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the project aims to turn 10 million tons of grass into productive resources, such as charcoal, briquettes, biochar, and paper. Dr. Ba-an explained that the project is training rural women in three regions – Upper East, Upper West, and Northern Region – to produce these resources and use biochar as a sustainable alternative to chemical fertilizers. The project has already conducted training sessions, conferences, and workshops in all three regions. The ultimate goal is to leverage the grass economy to influence social protection policies at the local government level, particularly in areas such as school feeding programs and poverty alleviation initiatives. To achieve this, Dr. Ba-an and his team have invited technical experts, social welfare directors, agriculture departments, forestry services, and other stakeholders to a national policy forum in Bolgatanga. Professor David Millar, President of the Millar Institute, addressed stakeholders at a forum, emphasizing the institute’s goal to revolutionize the North’s economy through innovation. He highlighted the district assembly as the primary target for this initiative, leveraging the region’s natural advantage as the “grass land” of Ghana. Meanwhile, addressing stakeholders at the forum, Professor Millar encouraged stakeholders to champion this innovation through the assembly, stressing the importance of educating donors about the initiative’s regional focus and potential national benefits. He explained that, although a national dialogue was initially planned, the institute opted to begin with district-level discussions to ensure grassroots engagement and ownership. By focusing on the district assemblies, the Millar Institute aims to empower local communities to drive economic growth and development, positioning the North as a model for sustainable innovation in Ghana. Source: Apexnewsgh.com Thanks for reading from Apexnewsgh as a news publishing website from Ghana. We encourage you to freely share this story via social media platform and follow us on; Facebook on APEXNEWSGH-Tv or Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0248250270/0256336062.
Mainstreaming Grass Biochar in Agriculture: A way to go for Farmers–Clifford Amoah Adagama
Clifford Amoah Adagama, of Kessena Nankana Cooperative Baobab Processors Union (KANBACU), has emphasized the potential of grass biochar to transform agriculture in the region. Apexnewsgh reports Speaking at a dialogue meeting organized by the Millar Institute for Transdisciplinary and Development Studies (MITDS) in Bolgatanga, Mr. Adagama highlighted the benefits of mainstreaming biochar into agricultural production. Mr. Adagama noted that introducing biochar to dry season farming can help reduce the reliance on chemical fertilizers, promote soil rejuvenation, and increase fertility levels. This innovation has the potential to support women farmers who struggle to access capital for chemical fertilizers. KANBACU has already received training on biochar production and has started initial pilots. Mr. Adagama stressed the need for government support to scale up this innovation, advocating for a seed fund to be established for environmental conservation and protection initiatives. This fund would enable innovators to access resources to develop and scale their technologies, reducing the environmental impact of bushfires in the region. According to him, the adoption of grass biochar in agriculture has the potential to reduce pressure on farmers, promote conservation, and increase household income. Mr. Adagama’s call to action emphasizes the importance of government investment in this innovation to reduce the environmental impacts of bushfires and promote sustainable agriculture practices. Source: Apexnewsgh.com Thanks for reading from Apexnewsgh as a news publishing website from Ghana. We encourage you to freely share this story via social media platform and follow us on; Facebook on APEXNEWSGH-Tv or Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0248250270/0256336062
Embracing Grass Biochar: A Game-Changer for Farmers in Talensi
Peter Abunga, Department of Social Welfare and Community Development Talensi, has expressed his enthusiasm for grass biochar, a innovation that has the potential to revolutionize farming in the region. Apexnewsgh reports Speaking at a dialogue meeting organized by the Millar Institute for Transdisciplinary and Development Studies (MITDS) in Bolgatanga, Mr. Abunga shared his views on the benefits of grass biochar, highlighting its potential to improve soil fertility, reduce the need for chemical fertilizers, and increase water retention in the soil. Mr. Abunga, who comes from a farming background, emphasized the significance of this innovation for farmers in the region. He noted that the use of chemical fertilizers has become increasingly expensive, making it difficult for farmers to afford. Grass biochar, on the other hand, is a cost-effective and sustainable solution that can help enrich soil fertility, reduce soil erosion, and increase crop yields. The Department and Community Development Talensi official expressed his gratitude to the Millar Institute for introducing this innovation and urged the government to intervene and support the implementation of grass biochar in farming practices. He emphasized that government backing is crucial for the success of this policy, particularly in the context of the Planting for Food and Jobs initiative. Mr. Abunga’s endorsement of grass biochar is a testament to its potential to transform farming in Talensi and beyond. As a community leader, his support is essential in promoting this innovation among farmers and encouraging its adoption. “With government support, grass biochar can become a game-changer for farmers in the region, improving their livelihoods and contributing to food security”. He stressed Source: Apexnewsgh.com Thanks for reading from Apexnewsgh as a news publishing website from Ghana. We encourage you to freely share this story via social media platform and follow us on; Facebook on APEXNEWSGH-Tv or Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0248250270/0256336062
Grass Biochar: A Natural and Cost-Effective Solution for Soil Fertility–Ali Rapheal Yenbapono
Ali Rapheal Yenbapono, Project Manager of Tuna Women Development Project (TUWODEP), has expressed his enthusiasm for the grass biochar innovation introduced by the Millar Institute for Transdisciplinary and Development Studies. Apexnewsgh reports At a zonal dialogue meeting in Bolgatanga, Mr. Yenbapono shared his views on the potential of this technology to improve soil health, increase productivity, and reduce poverty. Mr. Yenbapono highlighted the abundance of grass in the region, which can be easily accessed and utilized for biochar production. He emphasized the benefits of this innovation, particularly for rural farmers, who can use biochar as a cost-effective alternative to expensive fertilizers. This, in turn, can help reduce soil degradation and improve crop yields. “Prof. Millar has done well identifying this grass biochar innovation. Because, we have a lot of grass in abundance and is something that we don’t even go to buy. And I think, this innovation, if we advocate it well, it will go a long way to help our people especially people in rural areas. Cutting of tree are now becoming too much for us. So, grass is a free thing we have to embrace”. He said Regarding government intervention, Mr. Yenbapono stressed the importance of policy support to promote this innovation. He suggested that government policies, such as incorporating biochar into school curricula or promoting its use through traditional authorities, can go a long way in enhancing its adoption. Mr. Yenbapono also acknowledged the rampant issue of bush fires in the Savannah region and expressed his belief that this innovation can help minimize the occurrence of such fires. By promoting the use of biochar, communities can reduce the amount of dry grass that fuels bush fires. Source: Apexnewsgh.com Thanks for reading from Apexnewsgh as a news publishing website from Ghana. We encourage you to freely share this story via social media platform and follow us on; Facebook on APEXNEWSGH-Tv or Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0248250270/0256336062
Grass Biochar, a life saver for us as Ghanaians– Abu Dokuwie Alhassan
Abu Dokuwie Alhassan, Executive Director of Capacity Enhancement and Community Support (CAPECS), has emphasized the significance of the Grass biochar innovation introduced by the Millar Institute for Transdisciplinary and Development Studies (MITDS). He describes the innovation as a life saver. Apexnewsgh reports This technology has the potential to restore environmental dignity, improve soil health, and increase productivity. Alhassan highlighted the widespread use of chemical fertilizers by farmers in Ghana, which harms the environment and perpetuates reliance on imported products. He stressed the need to promote indigenous technologies like grass biochar, which can create jobs, generate generational wealth, and improve soil health. “As far as am concerned, biochar is a life saver for us as Ghanaians, biochar serves as a very important manure and you realized in recent times practically every farmer have resorted to the use of chemicals and that is disingenuous to our environment. If we can promote the use of indigenous technology like this biochar that is been introduced by Millar Institute, i think we have the opportunity to make our soil better” Sharing his personal experience as a farmer, Alhassan noted the high cost of chemical fertilizers and the burden it places on rural farmers. He emphasized that adopting indigenous approaches can reduce costs, improve soil health, and increase income for farmers. Alhassan called on the government to promote the use of indigenous technologies and reduce reliance on imported chemical fertilizers. By doing so, Ghana can create a more sustainable and self-sufficient agricultural sector that benefits both farmers and the environment. The benefits of grass biochar include: Improved soil health, Increased productivity, Job creation in the grass economy, Generational wealth creation, Reduced costs for farmers, Improved soil health, Increased income for farmers By embracing this innovation, Ghana can take a significant step towards sustainable agriculture and environmental restoration. Source: Apexnewsgh.com Thanks for reading from Apexnewsgh as a news publishing website from Ghana. We encourage you to freely share this story via social media platform and follow us on; Facebook on APEXNEWSGH-Tv or Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0248250270/0256336062
Commercializing grass biochar is something we are going to go— Madam Miyella Lydia
Executive Director of Maaltaaba Pesaent Women Farmer Cooperative, Miyella Lydia, has expressed her enthusiasm for the grass biochar innovation, pointing its potential to improve the environment and empower vulnerable widows. Apexnewsgh reports During a zonal dialogue meeting in Bolgatanga, Madam Miyella shared her organization’s experience with grass biochar and their plans to commercialize its production. “Our main focus is on the environment, and when this technology was introduced, I was thrilled,” she said. “Through the Forest and Farm Facility (FFF) project, we have acquired a lot, and Chief has given us land where we have demonstrated the grass biochar. The women I work with cannot afford certain inputs for their farms, so when this technology was introduced, we embraced it.” Madam Miyella explained that her organization has demonstrated grass biochar in their farms, backyard gardens, and Portray farms, encouraging their women to use it. “We know that when there’s enough biochar on the soil, it helps with water retention, which is crucial in the Upper East region where we have drought issues,” she added. She highlighted the benefits of grass biochar, including its ability to take away the scent in Portray farms and its use as fertilizer. “We are planning to commercialize it next year, and we pray that if you want to buy, you can visit Maba, and they will start measuring it in both for people to buy,” she said. Madam Miyella further emphasized that her organization has received the technology wholeheartedly and is committed to promoting it. “It is a very good technology, and we are going to do it because it is something that will help our women,” she concluded. Source: Apexnewsgh.com Thanks for reading from Apexnewsgh as a news publishing website from Ghana. We encourage you to freely share this story via social media platform and follow us on; Facebook on APEXNEWSGH-Tv or Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0248250270/0256336062
Grass Biochar: Adding Value to grass will go a long way in putting money into people’s pocket—Awal Ahmed Kariama
Alhaji Awal Ahmed Kariama, Executive Director of RISE Ghana, has expressed his enthusiasm for the new grass biochar innovation introduced by the Millar Institute for Transdisciplinary and Development Studies (MITDS). He believes, adding value to grass will go a long way in putting money into people’s pocket. Apexnewsgh reports During a zonal dialogue meeting in Bolgatanga, Alhaji Awal shared more interesting views on the potential of this technology to improve soil health, increase productivity, and reduce poverty. Ahmed highlighted the challenges faced by farmers, including the high cost of inputs, particularly fertilizer. He emphasized that the introduction of briquettes from this innovation will significantly reduce the cost of farming, leading to improved income for farmers and reduced poverty levels. “As for farmers, some challenges that they have is the high cost of inputs and by inputs particularly fertilizers, is very expensive for most of our farmers and so the introduction of grass biochar will go a long way in reducing the cost of farming for our farmers and by reducing the cost of farming that means that the impact in terms of the income the farmer is going to get, is going to improve and when that is improved the level of poverty in the house is improved” He said As an NGO focused on supporting vulnerable groups, RISE Ghana sees the potential for grass biochar to benefit women, persons with disabilities, and other marginalized communities. Ahmed expressed his organization’s commitment to exploring ways to integrate this innovation into their strategic plan, focusing on income generation, promoting inclusion, and reducing economic vulnerability. “If we add value to grass like Prof Millar is trying to do I think it will go a long way to equally put money into people’s pocket, but it will also help protect our environment. So, for me I see it as a very creative idea, and I think everybody who interested in the environment who is interested in reducing poverty should come all out and support this to become a reality” He tressed Regarding policy, Ahmed acknowledged the importance of government support but emphasized the need to leverage existing policies and entry points to promote this innovation. He called on the government to take immediate action to support sustainable agriculture and environmental restoration through innovative technologies like grass biochar. Source: Apexnewsgh.com Thanks for reading from Apexnewsgh as a news publishing website from Ghana. We encourage you to freely share this story via social media platform and follow us on; Facebook on APEXNEWSGH-Tv or Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0248250270/0256336062
Stakeholders Gather in Wa for Grass Economy Innovation Dialogue
The Millar Institute for Transdisciplinary and Development Studies (MITDS) recently organized a stakeholder’s dialogue in Wa, Upper West, to discuss the innovative grass economy. Apexnewsgh reports The event brought together individuals, organizations, groups, and departments interested in the grass biochar project. Farmers who attended the dialogue were particularly enthusiastic about the potential of grass biochar. They emphasized its ability to improve soil longevity, exceeding three years, unlike chemical fertilizers which only have a one-year span and primarily benefit crops, not the soil. The dialogue provided a platform for participants to make voluntary pledges on promoting and marketing the grass bio project in their communities. The theme of the event was “Reversing Deforestation, Eliminating Bushfires and Land Degradation, Using Grass Economy Innovation as a Vital Entry Point.” The stakeholder’s dialogue was a significant step forward in exploring the potential of grass biochar to address environmental and agricultural challenges in the region. By bringing together diverse stakeholders, MITDS facilitated a collaborative approach to promoting sustainable development and innovation in the Upper West region. Source: Apexnewsgh.com Thanks for reading from Apexnewsgh as a news publishing website from Ghana. We encourage you to freely share this story via social media platform and follow us on; Facebook on APEXNEWSGH-Tv or Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0248250270/0256336062