Ho Technical University (HTU) has donated its domesticated fast‑maturing baobab seedlings to Takoradi Technical University (TTU) during the 4th Applied Research Conference of Technical Universities of Ghana (ARCTUG 2026).
The symbolic ceremony, held on Thursday, 28th May 2026, marked ten years since the conversion of polytechnics into technical universities in Ghana.The presentation was led by Prof. Kenneth Fafa Egbadzor, Director of Research and Innovation at HTU and lead on the Baobab Project, assisted by Prof. Charles Atombo and Senior Assistant Registrar, Mr. Jonathan J. Tuokumah.
Prof. Egbadzor emphasized that the improved baobab variety demonstrates the potential of research‑driven agricultural transformation and urged TTU to nurture the plant as a symbol of collaboration.
“We expect that as we donate this tree to you, you will take good care of it so that anytime we come here as Ho Technical University, we can pluck some of the fruits and have a taste of it,” he remarked.
The innovation, showcased by HTU at ARCTUG 2026, highlights a scientifically enhanced baobab species capable of reaching maturity within approximately three years, compared to the traditional variety which takes several years. Beyond its accelerated growth, the baobab is a multi‑use biological resource: the fruit pulp can be processed into beverages, ice cream, and jam; oil from the seeds is valuable for food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals; while the leaves, bark, and roots serve nutritional and medicinal purposes. Mr. Tuokumah reinforced its economic potential, describing the baobab as a versatile resource for sustainable development.
Receiving the plant on behalf of TTU, Mr. Kwaku Negble, Deputy Director of Works and Physical Development, expressed appreciation for the gesture and assured of nurturing the seedlings to full maturity.
The ARCTUG 2026, hosted by TTU under the theme “Advancing TVET for Innovation, Technology Transfer, and Entrepreneurship for Sustainable Development,” brought together policymakers, researchers, industry leaders, academics, and development partners. The conference was formally opened by President John Dramani Mahama on Tuesday, 26th May 2026.
The donation serves as a practical illustration of the progress achieved since the transformation of polytechnics into technical universities, demonstrating how these institutions have evolved into centres of applied research, innovation, and industry‑driven solutions.