Agricultural Science teachers participated in a two-day workshop this week, as part
of the Ministry of Education’s professional development activities with help for all
subject areas.
The newly appointed Agricultural Science Education Officer, Nicolette Francis,
hosted an Educators Empowerment Workshop for secondary and primary school
Agricultural Science teachers, under the theme “Growing Greatness.” This was
held at the John E. St. Luce Finance and Conference Center.
During the workshop, the agricultural science teachers were able to table their past
challenges faced within their respective schools, managing the school farms.
Teachers were allowed to share ideas that could not only support the students but
also the overall development of the Agricultural Science Department.
On the first day of the workshop, the proprietor of Anointed Farms, Neil Gomes,
was featured. He addressed the teachers on the characteristics of upcoming farmers
and how as teachers, they can help mold the perspective of farming through the
implementation of more practical learning. He also expressed, that as teachers they
should educate the students on all aspects of farming, outside of just production.
Farming can be a very lucrative business, as was highlighted by another farmer,
Adolph Audain, who explained to the teachers the economic viability of
agriculture and how to run a farm as a business, as this will assist them in how the
school farms are being operated despite limited resources.
Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) National
Specialist, Craig Thomas spoke on the implementation of internships for students
on agriculture-focused businesses within the secondary schools, to encourage the
students. He encouraged the teachers to utilize the expertise of local entrepreneurs
and technicians within the agriculture sector who could encourage students to see
agriculture as a viable area of interest. He also highlighted the many training and
external funding opportunities available to Antigua and Barbuda that can also be
beneficial to the schools.
The Agricultural Science Department continues to motivate teachers to impart
quality curriculum content to students by developing knowledge and understanding
of the importance of agriculture in Antigua and Barbuda.
Francis hopes to grow the program and the sector through collaboration with the
agricultural science teachers, as they are responsible for molding the next
generation of farmers who will contribute to food security and food safety in
Antigua and Barbuda.
