Post on 28-Dec-2015
Experiences on engaging youth in agriculture
13 March 2013
Background
Youth are the future of agriculture…………as enshrined in the CASP where it advocates for youth engagement, empowerment and participation in agriculture
Further evidenced by support exerted by MOA on the youth agribased program established in 1975 (4S)
Background
The program has evolved and is now referred as the CYDP being supported by UN Agencies: FAO, WFP, UNICEF and UNFPA
Trust of this programme is on agricultural skills development and enhancement for children and youth in SD to address food security issues and provide livelihoods options
Background
Currently 60 groups supportedClustered under school and out of school
youthEngaged in Livestock farming and Crop
farmingSupport Provided
Inputs, equipment, training, technical support
Experiences with youth programme
Recognition that youth is capable and knowledgeable in agricultural concepts
Willingness for youth to participate in agricultural initiatives (though there may be challenges)
Evidence of commitment by some groups or individuals
Smaller groups have better success rates than large groups
Experiences
Older bracket youth more committed than younger bracket
Non employed graduates not active in these groupings
Youth are mobile, versatile and impatient and result oriented
Lessons learned
Need to demystify myth about agriculture being a backward career
Agriculture need to be accorded an be recognized as a science and a profession just like all others (medical doctor)
Agriculture need to be modernized to attract the youth (made innovative, less labour intensive, new farming systems)
Lessons learned
Need to motivate youth through incentives Preferential markets, input subsidy, etc
Positive modelling of youth: Awards Need for MOYSC and MOA to engage in an
integrated approach for youth in agriculture Appropriate structures need to be developed
to support youth (Youth Wing) under SNAU
Conclusion
Troublesome as they are
Believe in young people
They can surprise you!