First Annual Ministry of Agriculture Career Fair & Expo: A Pathway into the Future!

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BY- Brent Simon

On Thursday 27th February, the Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries and the Blue Economy hosted its first Career Fair and Expo at the Multipurpose Center in Perry Bay. This event drew an excited crowd of approximately 150 fifth form Agricultural Science students across Antigua.

Organized by the Ministry’s Communications Unit, in collaboration with the Agricultural Science department within the Ministry of Education the event showcased over 70 career possibilities in the dynamic agriculture and fisheries sector.

In an inspiring opening ceremony, students were welcomed by Ms Carol-Faye Bynoe- George/Head of Communications Unit at the Ministry of Agriculture; Permanent Secretary Mr. Walter Christopher; and Mrs. Nicolette Francis, Agricultural Science Education Officer at the Ministry of Education.

Mr. Christopher energized the students with an uplifting message, encouraging them to explore the vast opportunities in agriculture and fisheries.

He highlighted the sector’s vital role in national development and painted a vibrant picture of modern farming, agribusiness, and sustainable food production as exciting and rewarding career paths.

The real excitement began as students engaged in insightful discussions with industry professionals, including technicians, fishermen, and agro-processors.

They explored potential career paths, learned about the daily realities of working in the field, and gained a deeper appreciation for the industry’s impact.

One of the benefits was an exciting opportunity, students were offered the chance to visit the farm owned by Twin I Payne of Twinstod Enterprises.

They welcomed the opportunity to assist in preparing produce for market, with the added incentive of a significant monetary reward per day. While they have not yet embarked on this hands-on experience, many expressed their enthusiasm and looked forward to embracing the challenge.

The energy and excitement of the day signaled something powerful: the future of agriculture is in great hands! Events like this bridge the gap between young people and industry professionals, creating a new generation of passionate, innovative agricultural leaders.

The Ministry of Agriculture was encouraged by the students’ reception and is considering to host a career fair annual event with the ultimate aim of inspiring even more young minds to join the movement for a thriving, resilient and sustainable agricultural future.

Schools Represented were:

Antigua Grammar School

Princess Margaret School

Clare Hall Secondary School

St. Mary’s Secondary School

All Saints Secondary School

Glanvilles Secondary School

Sir Novelle Richards Academy

Ottos Comprehensive School

Participating Divisions and Organizations were:

Ministry of Agriculture Communications Unit

Antigua Barbuda Agricultural Forum for Youth (ABAFY)

Antigua and Barbuda Network of Rural Women

Producers/Processors (ANBNROP)

Cotton Station

Agriculture Extension Division

Greencastle Agricultural Station

Veterinary & Livestock Division

GARD Center

Twinstod Enterprises

Antigua & Barbuda Beekeepers Cooperative

Participating Industry Professionals were:

Euton Henry Jr. – Fisherman

Michael Joseph – Crop Farmer/drome operator

Elise Phillip – Agro-processor

The future of agriculture is bright, and with events like this, it’s only getting brighter! Here’s to innovation, passion, and a new generation ready to grow the industry to new heights!

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