What's Happening?
The Antigua and Barbuda College of Advanced Studies (ABCAS) is launching a new School of Agriculture aimed at diversifying career options in the agricultural sector. Dr. Jonah Greene, the director of ABCAS,
is advocating for young Antiguans and Barbudans to consider agriculture as a viable career path. The school will offer over 70 distinct career opportunities, extending beyond traditional farming to include areas such as processing, marketing, retail, scientific research, and strategic partnerships with other sectors. Dr. Greene highlighted the importance of agro-processing, using the annual mango glut as an example of potential waste that could be mitigated through better processing techniques. The curriculum will cover specialized areas like agricultural marketing, pesticide science, and farm-to-table initiatives, with partnerships established with the University of Trinidad and Tobago and agricultural universities in Guyana.
Why It's Important?
This initiative is significant as it aims to reduce Antigua and Barbuda's economic reliance on tourism, which currently accounts for about 45% of the GDP. By expanding the scope of agricultural education, the School of Agriculture seeks to create sustainable career opportunities and enhance local agricultural capacity. This could lead to improved food security and economic diversification, providing a more stable economic foundation for the nation. The program also targets a wide demographic, including career changers and existing farmers, which could lead to a more skilled and versatile workforce in the agricultural sector.
What's Next?
The School of Agriculture plans to continue developing its programs and partnerships to offer comprehensive education in agricultural science. Public education campaigns will be essential to shift perceptions about agricultural careers and highlight the diverse opportunities available. The school aims to attract not only school leavers but also individuals seeking career changes or skill enhancements. As the programs roll out, there may be increased collaboration between agriculture and other sectors, such as tourism and culinary arts, fostering innovative farm-to-table initiatives.
