144 public secondary school students trained on crop planting methods in Oyo

Oyo State in Nigeria has taken a significant step towards enhancing agricultural education. Recently, 144 students from 18 public schools in Oyo State participated in a training program called the "Grow What You Eat Initiative: Cultivating Future Agriculturists."

This initiative, launched by OOK Farms Limited, is part of the company's Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and aims to foster an interest in agriculture among secondary school students and educate them about sustainable crop planting methods. The program, which unfolded at the International Conference Centre of the University of Ibadan, provided students from public junior and senior secondary schools in Oyo State with hands-on knowledge of various crop production techniques. Experienced experts from the agriculture sector facilitated the training sessions.

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The Oyo State Commissioner of Agriculture and Rural Development, Mr. Olasunkanmi Olaleye, emphasized the importance of this initiative, citing its potential to significantly contribute to the Nigerian economy. He pointed out that it would enhance food security, generate employment opportunities, and supply essential raw materials. Olaleye stated, "This approach would encourage indigenous people in the state to engage in backyard farming and goat rearing and would also bolster agricultural production within Oyo State, contributing to its growth and sustainability."

The Group Managing Director of OOK, Ms. Omolara Svensson, elaborated on the initiative's broader goals, highlighting its mission to provide secondary school students with a comprehensive and practical understanding of agriculture. She expressed that "Grow What You Eat" aimed to instill a sense of responsibility, respect for the environment, and a commitment to sustainable living among the youth.

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Svensson emphasized that the program transcends technical skills, aiming to nurture a generation that values sustainable farming practices and comprehends the intricacies of agriculture. Through hands-on activities and experiential learning, students will acquire the knowledge and skills needed to engage in sustainable farming practices. Resource persons, including experienced cassava farmer Mrs. Seun Ogidan, encouraged students to change their perception of farming as a profession and to remain focused if they intend to pursue a career in agriculture.

Mr. Akinlade Ogunbiyi, Group Chairman of Mutual Benefit Assurance Plc and Chairman of Arubiewe Farms in Osun State, underscored the significance of agriculture in human existence. He advised youths to embrace agriculture as a way of life, regardless of their academic or professional pursuits. Ogunbiyi also called on governments at all levels to encourage students to embrace agriculture, ensuring food sufficiency for all. Participating students expressed their enthusiasm and newfound appreciation for farming, noting that the program had transformed their perception of agriculture from a dirty job to a meaningful profession.

The "Grow What You Eat Initiative" is a testament to the commitment of Oyo State and OOK Farms Limited to empower the youth with the knowledge and skills needed to contribute to sustainable agriculture and ensure a food-secure future for Nigeria.