Summer Internship Programme Introduces Interns to the World of Agro-Processing by Shenequa Williams

Interns participating in the Ministry of Agriculture’s Summer Internship Programme gained valuable hands-on experience in agro-processing on Friday 3rd July during an interactive session led by Mrs. Miriam Samuel at the Ottos Comprehensive School.

The educational session focused on the importance of adding value to agricultural produce by making use of parts of fruits and vegetables that are often discarded. One of the highlights of the day was learning about the mango. Interns discovered that the peel and the kernel found inside the mango seed are among the fruit’s most valuable parts. Once dehydrated and ground into powder, they can be incorporated into smoothies and a variety of other food products, maximizing the use of the fruit while reducing waste.

As part of the practical activities, some interns carefully cracked open the hard mango seeds to extract the kernel inside for processing, while others sliced fresh okra to prepare it for dehydration. Once dried and blended into powder, the okra can be used in soups, smoothies, and other nutritious recipes.

The interns also learned about the many uses of Cassie, also known as the prickly pear cactus. They were shown how it can be sliced, dehydrated, and blended into powder, and learned that it is traditionally valued for its health benefits, including supporting healthy blood pressure.

In addition to the agro-processing exercises, the interns took part in a plant identification activity around the school’s compound. They explored the gardens, photographing and identifying various plants, fruit trees, crops, and weeds. The activity encouraged them to observe their surroundings more closely while expanding their knowledge of the different plant species commonly found in Antigua and Barbuda.

The day’s activities demonstrated that agriculture extends well beyond planting and harvesting. Through agro-processing, locally grown produce can be transformed into value-added products, creating opportunities to reduce waste, improve food security, and promote healthier lifestyles.

The Ministry of Agriculture’s Summer Internship Programme continues to expose young people to the many areas of the agricultural sector, equipping them with practical skills and knowledge while inspiring a greater appreciation for the role agriculture plays in national development.