BY MISGANAW ASNAKE
GONDAR– The University of Gondar said it has conducted community- based and problem- solving researches that registered notable results in changing the livelihoods of the nearby farming community.
University President Asrat Atsedeweyn (Ph.D) told the Ethiopian Press Agency (EPA) that the University has made significant contributions in the modernization and commercialization of farming activities in the area. Also, the University has provided improved species including potato, avocado, watermelon and wheat that are suitable to grow in various agro ecological zones.
Due to the adaptation and distribution of improved species to farmers organized in cluster bases, it is managed to produce high-yield fruits and crops in different areas. For instance, in Gorgora Research Center, farmers are producing fruits including watermelon in huge amounts with the help of University researchers and the experience is expanding into other areas, the academician elaborated.
“We train the farmers and encourage them to plant watermelon, wheat, potato and other fruits and we also create the market linkage with buyers. Moreover, the institution of higher education has provided technical and technological support in Belesa, Dabat and Sanja districts.”
In line with the government’s nationwide plan of optimizing wheat production during the dry season, the University of Gondar is applying the program in Central and West Gondar zones and the farmers are able to irrigate up to 700 hectares of land. “Through this program, farmers have managed to improve their livelihoods,” Asrat said, adding that the University will expand mechanized agriculture and purchase tractors and combine harvesters to the nearby community.
The Ethiopian Herald September 10/2022
