The University of Environment and Sustainable Development (UESD), Somanya, Eastern Region has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Maleeka Farms Limited (MFL), one of Ghana’s leading fish farming companies, to foster collaboration in aquaculture education, research, and industry engagement.
The partnership between UESD and MFL is aimed at creating mutually beneficial opportunities in academic programming, research, student internships, faculty exchange, and community outreach. The MoU marks a formal understanding and commitment to jointly enhance aquaculture development in Ghana. Key Areas of Collaboration are; Research and Development:
Through this partnership, stdudents, faculty, and research staff will work alongside with MFL professionals on joint research projects focusing on sustainable aquaculture, disease control, water quality, feed improvement, and technological advancements. Internships and Practical Training: Students enrolled in the Aquaculture Programmeill gain hands-on training through internships and practical attachments at MFL facilities, enabling them to experience real-world aquaculture operations. Faculty members will participate in workshops, seminars, and short-term residencies at Maleeka Farms to share expertise, strengthen professional development, and enhance industry-academic knowledge exchange.
In his comments, Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Eric Nyarko-Sampson, commended the collaboration, stating that the partnership aligns with the University’s mission to combine academic excellence with environmental sustainability and community impact. Adding that ‘we look forward to working closely with Maleeka Farms to transform aquaculture education and contribute to national development.”
The CEO of Maleeka Farms Limited, Mr. Roger Aboujaoude, stated that his facility is a licensed Limited Liability Company recognised by the Fisheries Commission as a standard large operator in Ghana’s fisheries sector. The company specialises in the environmentally sustainable cultivation and distribution of Tilapia and employs over 160 professionals, including Ghanaians and expatriates.
He expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration and indicated that that his facility has always been to blend sustainable aquaculture with innovation. Partnering with UESD enables them to nurture the next generation of industry leaders while continuing to support Ghana’s food security goals.
By: Agnes B. Adu Sarpong