At MDF, we see that real change often starts with education. This is why we’re highlighting the success of the Water and Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) project at the College of Agriculture Education (CAGRIC) in Ghana. Funded by Nuffic and implemented by a consortium led by MDF, the project has led to improvements in curriculum development, gender equity, and community engagement.
A curriculum that makes a difference
The WASH project, running from 2014 to 2018, focused on strengthening environmental health and sanitation education at CAGRIC. The college, then part of the University of Education Winneba, adopted the project’s recommendations and embedded gender and WASH modules into its curriculum. Today, as Akenten Appiah-Menka University of Skills Training and Entrepreneurial Development (AAMUSTED), these programmes continue to benefit many students.
Supporting female leadership
One notable outcome is the Gender Association, established in 2016. With the project’s support, this student-led group has become a platform for discussing gender issues. It has encouraged more female students to stand for leadership positions on campus.
A crèche for students and the community
Another important result is the creation of a children’s crèche, based on a gender audit carried out during the project. The crèche supports student-parents and serves as a training centre for students in the Early Childhood Education programme.
The demand from the local community is high, and the crèche is already seen as a model for the Mampong Municipality. Once its expansion is complete, it will not only provide more childcare spaces but also generate income for the university.
The success of the crèche at CAGRIC has inspired the establishment of 18 early childcare centres in national TVET colleges across Ethiopia, thanks to the MDF expertise. This development values the lessons learnt from the WASH project and builds on the motivation and leadership of female teachers and influencers in these institutions. Through the expertise of the MDF in addressing childcare needs, these centres are helping to create a more supportive learning and working environment for all types of students and staff.
A lasting impact
The results of the project are clear. From an improved curriculum to initiatives that address real needs, WASH has left its mark. This month, a new group of graduates completed their studies, ready to apply their knowledge.
At MDF, we are proud to support projects that turn education into meaningful change. We specially express our gratitude to Prof. Richard Amankwa Kuffour, AAMUSTED and Marie José Niesten, MDF Project Director.
