The Eric Danquah Foundation (EDF) is making a significant impact on the academic and professional lives of students in Ghana through its Highflyers in Plant Breeding and Genetics Programme. Founded by Professor Eric Yirenkyi Danquah from the West Africa Centre for Crop Improvement, the EDF is dedicated to preparing young people for the future of sustainable agriculture.
According to a statement issued by EDF and copied to the Ghana News Agency, beneficiaries of the foundation's flagship program, such as Mr. Bright Fiakeye, testify to the pivotal role played by EDF in shaping their academic journey. Mr. Fiakeye, a scholarship recipient, acknowledges the full support provided by EDF, which covered his school fees, housing, and even provided a laptop. This comprehensive support, along with mentorship from EDF, opened new doors for him in both academics and future career paths. Mr. Fiakeye, now pursuing postgraduate studies at the University of Cambridge, credits EDF for guiding him through the application process and assisting with costs for English proficiency tests, ultimately leading to his admission to the prestigious university.
EDF's impact extends beyond academic excellence in Ghana, as it has reignited interest in agriculture and facilitated opportunities for studying abroad. Mr. Salaudeen Bandanaa, another EDF scholar, shares how the foundation's mentorship clarified his career goals and motivated him towards academic excellence. Now studying for an MSc in Global Plant Health at the University of East Anglia, UK, Mr. Bandanaa attributes his success to his hard work and the support from EDF, including securing the David Sainsbury international scholarship.
Similarly, Madam Sandra Awuradwoa Krowa Akrofi, supported by EDF, highlights the foundation's role in her academic path. Beyond financial assistance, EDF provided invaluable mentorship and covered the cost of the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), contributing to her exceptional academic journey. Madam Akrofi, now pursuing an MPhil in Crop Science at the University of Ghana, aspires to contribute significantly to global food and nutrition security using biotechnology tools.
The Eric Danquah Foundation, recognized for its commitment to developing future agricultural leaders in Ghana, offers not only financial support but also mentorship and opportunities for international education. Established in 2020, the foundation builds on the legacy of its founder, Professor Eric Danquah, the 2022 Africa Food Prize Laureate, who also founded the West Africa Centre for Crop Improvement (WACCI) at the University of Ghana in 2007. The foundation's impact reflects its dedication to empowering the next generation of agricultural innovators in Ghana.
