Imo State—Senator Osita Izunaso successfully conducted a three-day training program on modern agricultural skills for youths and women of Imo West Senatorial District from August 8 to 11, 2024. Held at the Ibis Royale Hotel in New Owerri, the event aimed to equip participants with advanced agricultural techniques and practical knowledge essential for professionalizing their farming ventures.
During the opening remarks, Senator Izunaso welcomed attendees and outlined the program’s objectives. He emphasized the importance of bringing modern agricultural practices closer to the people, noting the challenges of food security and the need for effective solutions. “Our focus is on food security, and if we don’t bring these solutions to the people, then they are ineffective,” he stated.
The training program was part of a broader initiative supported by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security and supervised by the National Root Crop Research Institute Umudike. It included a variety of sessions designed to enhance the participants’ skills in modern agriculture.
Senator Izunaso also announced plans of organising the participants into a cooperative to harmonise their efforts and ensure their agro output is economically viable, the cooperative is expected to have upto 5,000 graduates from the modern agricultural skill programs he has facilitated via the national assembly.
Participants engaging with their tutors
This initiative reflects his commitment to boosting local employment and economic growth. He highlighted that flyers for this new venture would be distributed after a four-week period and mentioned that special fertilizers would be provided to support crop production.
Furthermore, Senator Izunaso revealed that an additional 1,200 packs of fertilizer would be distributed to local governments next week. The distribution will be managed by the traditional rulers and the President Generals of the community to ensure proper allocation. Each local government is set to receive 100,000 units of the fertilizer, which will be shared in the community.
Sen.Osita Izunaso at the Modern Agricultural Skills Training of Imo West Women and Youths
In a recent seminar, which concluded on August 11, participants learned about advanced agricultural techniques, including the use of modern tools and practices to enhance productivity. The session also included discussions on food security and practical approaches to addressing agricultural challenges.
“The seminar was successful,” Senator Izunaso commented. “Participants gained valuable insights and practical skills. We are committed to continuing this program to support our local farmers and ensure that they are equipped to meet contemporary agricultural demands.”
The training also addressed concerns about the availability of resources and the need for ongoing support. “We have faced challenges, such as limited funding, but our focus remains on providing valuable training and resources to our participants,” Senator Izunaso added.
Looking forward, the senator mentioned plans to advance the program further by exploring new technologies and techniques. This includes collaboration with international experts to enhance agricultural practices.
Senator Izunaso expressed gratitude to all attendees for their participation and engagement. “Thank you all for coming. I hope you enjoyed your accommodation and found the training beneficial,” he concluded.
5days Training om Agricultural Skills for Women and Youths of Imo West Senatorial District
The program was a significant step towards empowering the youths and women of Imo West with the skills needed to excel in modern agriculture, reflecting Senator Izunaso’s dedication to enhancing local livelihoods and advancing agricultural development in the region.
All the participants went home with special crops and that includes Malaysian Pawpaw , Coconut and plantain seedlings as well as cash to support their agricultural initiatives.
