Agriculture Minister Vatimi Rayalu has emphasized the critical need to empower the youth with the essential skills for a sustainable future in agriculture, which is vital for enhancing the nation’s food production. During the centenary celebration of the Navuso Agriculture Technical Institute (NATI) in Naitasiri, Mr. Rayalu addressed the longstanding issues between the government and the Methodist Church, which operates NATI, stating that these conflicts had previously hindered the institute’s operations and, by extension, the country’s food security.
Mr. Rayalu strongly asserted that it is unacceptable for Fiji to continue relying on food imports that could be cultivated locally. He highlighted that this challenge can be effectively tackled by uniting efforts to provide the youth with quality training, thus expanding the agricultural sector.
He urged more Fijians to take advantage of the various scholarships and incentives available through institutions like NATI, which aim to draw more young people into farming. Mr. Rayalu pointed out that many farming ventures have faced challenges due to not adhering to proper standards, and he encouraged aspiring farmers to utilize government initiatives to gain valuable farming knowledge and improve their chances for success.
By cultivating a new generation of skilled farmers, Mr. Rayalu believes Fiji could attract potential investors willing to finance agricultural operations, leading to greater self-sufficiency in food production.
This call for youth engagement in agriculture reflects a hopeful vision for Fiji’s future, promoting local food production and sustainability. By investing in the next generation of farmers, the nation is taking significant steps toward achieving food security and economic resilience.
In summary, empowering young people through proper training in agriculture is essential for Fiji to boost local food production, reduce imports, and pave the way for economic growth and sustainability.
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