Interns Visit to GARD Center by Emerald David
The Ministry of Agriculture Summer Interns visited The GARD Center, with this being our final visit for the 2026 Internship Programme.
Operating for over Thirty-seven (37) years, the GARD Center provides vocational training, technical support and business advice to assist youths and vulnerable groups. This assistance allows them to gain technical and entrepreneurial skills to compete in the work environment.
The interns were welcomed to the facility by Ms. June Jackson/Executive Director of the GARD Center and Ms. Sharice Tonge/Administrative Assistant. The questions were asked to the interns “Where does your future lie?” and “What areas of Agriculture perk your interest?” The interns highlighted their interest in Beekeeping, Hydroponics, Aquaponics and Traditional Farming. Ms. Tonge encouraged participants that their involvement in Agriculture can take them places and open doors of opportunities for them, as long as they remain passionate and interested.
“Everyone has to start somewhere”, Ms. Jackson stated that focusing on Agri-business will enable you to provide for your family while contributing to the Agricultural Sector. “Try to help yourselves even if you start in your very own backyard”, she added as a hope of encouragement.
Today’s activity involved the painting of the plant nursery, where the interns were able to demonstrate their painting skills. Words used to describe today were relaxing, fun, engaging, memorable and therapeutic.
The interns were given the necessary materials to complete the painting of the nursery such as paint, paintbrushes, paint rollers, paint trays and gloves. As the 2026 Internship Program winds down, we are elated to express our satisfaction with hosting a successful program this year. The perfect way to end five (5) weeks of knowledge, training and eye-opening visits to the diverse areas within the sector.
The Ministry of Agriculture continues to encourage the inclusion of young people in Agriculture in Antigua and Barbuda.
