Dr. Kwadwo Gyasi Santo | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Kwadwo Gyasi Santo has an impressive educational background, which serves as a strong foundation for his expertise in agronomy. He earned his Ph.D. in Agronomy from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology in Kumasi, Ghana, in 2017. His doctoral dissertation focused on the growth, bulking, yield, and root quality of cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) in relation to the application of organic and inorganic fertilizers. Prior to this, he completed his Master of Science in Agronomy at the same university in 2010, where he investigated the growth and yield response of groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) to different weeding regimes and plant spacing. His academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture, awarded with honors from the University of Cape Coast, Ghana, in 2004. This robust educational trajectory has equipped Dr. Santo with essential skills and knowledge to contribute significantly to agricultural research and practice.

Kwadwo Gyasi Santo has a robust academic and professional background in agronomy, currently serving as a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Horticulture and Crop Production at the University of Energy and Natural Resources, Ghana. His experience includes leading the Centre for Agriculture Technology, where he coordinates research and production initiatives. He has held various roles, such as Postgraduate Coordinator and lecturer, and has facilitated agricultural training programs through projects like the KNUST-ENI Ghana Agribusiness Youth Training Project. Before his academic career, Dr. Santo worked as a research scientist at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, contributing significantly to crop research. His dedication to teaching is evident from his previous roles as a secondary school teacher. Dr. Santo’s extensive experience in research, teaching, and leadership showcases his commitment to advancing agricultural practices and education in Ghana and contributes significantly to the field of sustainable agriculture.

Kwadwo Gyasi Santo’s research focuses on advancing sustainable agricultural practices through innovative approaches in agronomy. His expertise encompasses climate-smart agriculture, agro-ecology, and the cultivation of crops such as cassava, groundnut, and maize. Dr. Santo investigates the effects of organic and inorganic fertilizers on crop growth and yield, exploring efficient fertilization strategies to enhance food security. He is particularly interested in integrated pest management techniques, including the push-pull method to combat pests like fall armyworms, as well as weed management practices tailored to various crop systems. His research also delves into the optimization of crop spacing and intercropping systems, promoting biodiversity and resource efficiency. Through his work, Dr. Santo aims to improve agricultural productivity while minimizing environmental impact, contributing to the broader goal of sustainable development in Ghana and beyond. His findings have significant implications for local farmers, helping them adopt practices that increase resilience to climate change.

Kwadwo Gyasi Santo is a highly qualified candidate for the Best Researcher Award, demonstrating exceptional expertise in climate-smart agriculture and sustainable practices. His extensive academic background, with a Ph.D. in Agronomy and numerous publications in peer-reviewed journals, underscores his commitment to advancing agricultural science. As a Senior Lecturer and Head of the Centre for Agriculture Technology, he has exhibited strong leadership and a dedication to mentoring future scholars. Dr. Santo’s success in securing substantial research grants reflects his ability to conduct impactful research that addresses critical agricultural challenges. While his contributions are commendable, enhancing the translation of research findings into actionable policy recommendations and increasing public engagement could further amplify his impact. Overall, Dr. Santo’s dedication, achievements, and potential for future growth make him a deserving recipient of the Best Researcher Award, recognizing his significant contributions to the field of agriculture.