The Ondo State Government in Nigeria has called on all secondary schools in the state to create farms and promote entrepreneurship among students. This initiative, announced by the Education Commissioner, Hon. Laolu Akindolire, aims to address pressing issues such as food scarcity and unemployment while equipping students with essential skills for the future.
Akindolire highlighted the vital role that practical skills, especially in agriculture and food processing, play in enhancing students’ prospects for employment. He emphasized that by integrating agricultural practices into the school curriculum, students can gain hands-on experience that will enable them to become self-reliant adults who can contribute positively to their communities.
In support of this initiative, the Multiskill Teenpreneurship Program (MSTP) has received praise for its focus on empowering students to develop entrepreneurial skills. The program aims to instill a sense of responsibility and resourcefulness, preparing young people for the challenges that lie ahead.
Dr. Olugbenga Ogidan, an associate professor at Elizade University, shared his insights on the situation. He pointed out that modern irrigation practices are essential for effective farming and noted the worrying trend of underutilized arable land, which has led to food scarcity despite having sufficient resources. He encouraged schools to incorporate these modern practices to improve agricultural yields and food production.
Wale Akinyanmi, the CEO of the Multi-Skills Program, mentioned that the MSTP Farm initiative is crucial for bolstering food security in Ondo State. Akinyanmi explained that the program has successfully impacted over 600 students across nine secondary schools, focusing on teaching both students and instructors the necessary skills to thrive in agriculture.
The call for schools to adopt smart irrigation systems further highlights the Ondo Government’s commitment to sustainable farming practices. Akinyanmi stressed that these systems can help mitigate the negative effects of climate change while increasing agricultural productivity.
The overall goal of this initiative is to not only enhance food production but also to inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs. By engaging students in farming and entrepreneurship, the Ondo State Government hopes to foster a sense of community engagement and responsibility among youth.
To support this ambitious plan, the Commissioner urged greater collaboration between the government, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and philanthropists. With additional support, these partnerships can provide the resources necessary to help schools establish effective farming programs.
The Ondo State Government is taking proactive steps to address food scarcity and unemployment challenges by encouraging practical agricultural education in secondary schools. This initiative aims to equip students with vital skills, paving the way for a more self-sufficient and entrepreneurial future for the youth in Ondo State. By embracing farming and entrepreneurship, these students will not only be better prepared for the job market but will also contribute significantly to the local economy.
As the program unfolds, it will be essential for all stakeholders, educators, government officials, and community members, to work together to ensure its success and sustainability.
