Nineteen officers from the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways recently completed a five-day Training of Trainers (TOT) course on Coconut Development held in Taveuni from February 10-14. The training aimed to enhance the officers’ understanding of Fiji’s two primary coconut cultivars—Dwarf and Tall—equipping them to effectively distinguish between the varieties and support coconut development initiatives in their respective regions.
Ms. Perina Susu, Senior Agriculture Officer in Cakaudrove, highlighted the significance of the training, stating, “We are confident that after the training, the officers can accurately assess and support coconut development in their respective regions.” This course had participants from both the Eastern Division and Cakaudrove Province, underscoring the need for improved knowledge about the coconut sector, which plays a vital role in Fiji’s agricultural growth.
This initiative is part of the Ministry’s broader mission to enhance coconut farming and to promote sustainable agricultural practices. Similar training programs are becoming increasingly important in the region, as seen in previous initiatives where the Ministry has focused on enhancing the skills of its staff to optimize agricultural services for local farmers. The growing demand for educated agricultural officers illustrates a collective push towards not only improving individual capabilities but also fostering overall agricultural growth in Fiji.
Moreover, as the coconut sector continues to see interest both domestically and from tourists, there is significant optimism about its future. The completion of this training program represents a step forward in building a knowledgeable workforce dedicated to advancing coconut cultivation and supporting farmers through sustainable practices.
In summary, the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways is taking crucial steps to empower its officers, ultimately leading to a more robust coconut farming industry in Fiji. Such efforts set a positive precedent for the agricultural sector, fostering hopes for enhanced productivity and sustainability in the future.
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