What's Happening?
The Vice President of Nigeria, Kashim Shettima, has called for the reintroduction of agriculture in Nigerian schools. Speaking at the General Assembly of Farmers in Abuja, Shettima emphasized the importance of agriculture not just as an academic subject
but as a cultural practice that should shape the mindset of young Nigerians. He proposed that every school should have functional farms and that agriculture clubs should be revived to teach students about food production, land use, and agribusiness. Shettima criticized the perception of farming as a low-status occupation, arguing that it is essential for national development and food security. He urged leaders and institutions to engage directly in agriculture, highlighting the need for national institutions to maintain institutional farms. The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, also addressed the assembly, acknowledging the security challenges faced by farmers and assuring them of the government's commitment to improving safety in farming communities.
Why It's Important?
Reintroducing agriculture in schools is seen as a strategic move to strengthen Nigeria's food security and economic stability. By integrating agriculture into the educational system, the initiative aims to cultivate a new generation that values and understands the importance of food production. This could lead to increased local food production, reduced dependency on imports, and enhanced national pride. The initiative also addresses the issue of youth unemployment by providing skills and opportunities in the agricultural sector. Furthermore, by changing the perception of farming, the initiative could attract more young people to the sector, which is crucial for sustaining the country's agricultural base. The government's commitment to improving security for farmers is also significant, as it addresses one of the major barriers to agricultural productivity in Nigeria.
