Michael Bebile-Kogh

• Hometown: Kpalsi, Ghana
• Languages Spoken: Twi, Dagbani, Dagaare, English
• Major(s): Environmental Sciences
• Certificate(s): Leadership

Q and A with Michael:

What is a fun fact about your hometown?

Alan’s, Dagombas, Dagaatis, Kusassis, and Hausas all live together here. The many tribes and cultures here have taught me community and collaboration. This one’s a living lesson and helps me to execute my many organizational duties.

Why is being a King-Morgridge Scholar important to you?

Being a King-Morgridge Scholar is a dream come true. My parents are non-commercial farmers so higher education felt out of reach. This scholarship opens doors I never thought possible. It’s not just about funding my Environmental Sciences degree at UW-Madison; it’s about empowering me to fight poverty in Ghana through sustainable agriculture with ASELEM. I want to scale projects like mushroom farming and tree planting to boost food security and economic growth back home. This program fuels my drive to create change and ensures I can return to Ghana prepared to make the much needed impact the world yearns for.

What is your favorite thing about Madison?

The lakes in Madison are my favorite! Lake Mendota and Lake Monona have calm waters and vibrant ecosystems. As an environmental sciences major, I could take some notes from how Madison protects its natural beauty. I think it’d be great to chill by the waters whilst dreaming up solutions for a greener world.

Are there specific issues in poverty alleviation or development that you would like to work on or are currently addressing?

I’m passionate about using sustainable agriculture to fighting poverty, and I’m already working on this through the ASELEM Foundation. ASELEM’s sustainable agriculture initiative empowers communities by improving food security and creating income opportunities for young people. For instance, training farmers in sustainable practices boosts yields whilst protecting the environment. Studying environmental sciences will enable me to scale this project to address hunger and poverty in Kpalsi and beyond, ensuring communities thrive sustainably.

What do you like to do in your free time?

I am a big anime fan! I watch One Piece, Demon Slayer, and Battle Through The Heavens. Anime fuels my creativity; I’m combining my love for sustainability and advocacy through Terra Verde, my own anime project. I play Dream League Soccer, too! These keep me balanced even for my studies and environmental activities.