2025-2026 Agricultural Science Teachers Workshop by Carol-Faye Bynoe-George

The Agricultural Science department within the Ministry of Education held its annual teachers meeting/workshop at the University of the West Indies Five Island Campus on Wednesday 3rd September.  Under the vision “Empowering our learners with skill sets and attitudes to improve food security in Antigua and Barbuda and the mission “To ignite a passion for lifelong learning in sustainable agricultural practices”.

Directed by Mrs. Nicolette Francis/Agricultural Science Officer in the Ministry of Education, the main goals for the 2025-2026 academic year will be include:

  • Collaboration with other organizations such as Ministries of Agriculture, Health and Social Transformation
  • Provide training in modern farming methods
  • Rehabilitate the schools aquaponics and hydroponics systems
  • Provide pedagogical and technical training
  • Repair and improve the infrastructure of poultry pens

Participating in this year’s workshop were a total thirty five educators that consisted of twenty five secondary, eight primary and two pre-school teachers in addition with three farm attendant supervisors.

Mrs. Francis reiterated on several concerns and explained what the expectations of teachers were, she also vowed her commitment to support the programme and her teachers.  Additionally, she highlighted several activities from the previous academic year which included, the Inter-school garden competition and Agro-fest.  Further, she shared the upcoming calendar of events, made remarks on the CXC results, gave some teaching pointers/techniques and also had interactive sessions based on typical scenarios.

Other activities included a presentation on “Love your Mind, Heart and Body” by Dr. Georgette Meade/Cardiologist and Internal Medicine Specialist.  This presentation encapsulated on

  • healthy eating, (foods/drinks)
  • chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension and heart conditions
  • choices and responsibilities on health and wellness.

The final speaker was Professor C. Justin Robinson/Pro Vice Chancellor/Campus Principal at the UWI Five Islands Campus.  He addressed the audience with similar information as Dr. Meade but also disclosed the university intentions of offering continued studies in agricultural science, the aim of continue collaboration with other organizations such as the police department and further reiterated the importance of healthy consumption.

The participants exuberated their appreciation for all the sessions.  This also evident during the proactivity displayed throughout the day.