Over 27,000 young individuals are actively pursuing careers in agriculture across the country, a sector that is being increasingly recognized for its potential to foster innovation and entrepreneurship. During the inaugural National Youth in Agriculture Symposium, Agriculture Minister Tomasi Tunabuna highlighted the government’s unwavering commitment to empowering these young farmers as essential players in achieving national food security.
Minister Tunabuna emphasized that the Ministry is dedicated to providing young agriculturalists with the necessary skills, technology, and resources to establish sustainable and climate-resilient agro-enterprises. He challenged the outdated view of agriculture as merely a last-resort profession, instead positioning it as a vibrant and critical sector for young entrepreneurs eager to generate jobs and wealth.
“Farming or agriculture is the most critical innovative and exciting sector for any young farmer. It has the potential to make someone a boss or even a millionaire if we are truly committed to it,” Tunabuna stated, inspiring attendees to look beyond conventional perspectives on agriculture.
The two-day symposium serves as a platform for youth to engage with innovative farming models, understand market dynamics, and explore supportive government policies. It emphasizes the importance of networking with private sector partners, non-governmental organizations, and successful farmers to cultivate a robust agricultural community.
Furthermore, participants are encouraged to address and identify the challenges they face, allowing for the formulation of government programs that adequately support their aspirations. Minister Tunabuna urged those present to take full advantage of this opportunity to develop networks, mentor one another, and set actionable goals to ensure a prosperous future for agriculture in Fiji. The event concluded today, leaving participants empowered and inspired to elevate the agricultural landscape.
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