The Ministry of Agriculture and the University of Guyana (UG) yesterday signed an MOU that seeks to formalise and expand agriculture development.
According to a Government Information Agency (GINA) press release, agriculture development is a priority for the government and focus is currently being placed on ensuring that there are adequate human resources to drive this process forward. Permanent Secretary Dr Dindyal Permaul and UG Vice-Chancellor Dr James Rose are signatories to the MOU which was inked at the ministry in the presence of Minister Robert Persaud and other senior officials from the two entities.
Under the MOU the ministry will provide overall policy direction for the agriculture sector while UG’s Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry will endeavour to fulfil the current and evolving training needs of the sector and adapt to the ministry’s new initiatives and programmes.
It also targets professionals trained at the highest standards to conduct teaching, research and support for national development, including those with expertise in new areas being pursued under the agricultural diversification thrust.
Persaud said the agreement covers new sectors such as agro-energy and climate change which are currently being developed as new investment opportunities. Reference was also made to other areas like hydrology and water management in which persons have been sent for overseas training.
The minister underscored the importance of skilled human personnel in the development of these budding sectors despite emphasis on investments and land.
Meanwhile, Rose said some of the ministry’s deliverables under the MOU include providing internships for students from the agriculture faculty and improving the relationship among UG, the ministry and its various sub-agencies.
It was noted that the MOU is merely to strengthen the collaboration that already exists between the two agencies which facilitates student and research projects at the National Agricultural Research Institute (NARI). Additionally, UG and NARI personnel collaborate on research while the institute facilitates student attachment during the three-month vacation period to ensure practical training and field experience.
