Agriculture Minister Vatimi Rayalu has underscored the crucial need to equip young individuals with the necessary skills for a sustainable future in farming, aiming to enhance the nation’s food production capabilities. During the recent centennial anniversary of the Navuso Agriculture Technical Institute (NATI) in Naitasiri, he reflected on the historical challenges posed by the differing views between the government and the Methodist Church, which oversees NATI. These differences previously disrupted operations at the institution, thereby impacting the country’s agricultural output.
Mr. Rayalu pointed out the unacceptability of Fiji continuing to rely on food imports that could easily be cultivated locally. He emphasized that resolving this issue requires a collective and determined effort to provide youth with the right training to help expand agricultural production.
He asserted the importance of initiatives from institutions like NATI, which have long provided scholarships and incentives aimed at encouraging more young individuals to pursue careers in agriculture. “Too often in the past, farming businesses have failed because they haven’t met the proper standards,” he noted, highlighting a need for training and skill development.
Mr. Rayalu also encouraged young farmers to leverage available government initiatives and resources to gain valuable knowledge about farming, suggesting that successful trainees could attract potential investors interested in financing their agricultural endeavors. This vision of empowered youth in farming not only fosters sustainable practices but also creates a pathway for economic growth and food security for the nation.
By investing in education and practical training for young people, Fiji can not only reduce its dependency on food imports but also cultivate a new generation of farmers poised to innovate and contribute positively to the nation’s agriculture sector.
In summary, Minister Rayalu’s call for enhanced youth training in agriculture signifies a hopeful movement towards self-sufficiency in food production and encourages young Fijians to explore opportunities in farming, promising a brighter future for the nation’s agricultural landscape.
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