Under the leadership of Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries has officially launched the National Agricultural Training Initiative (NATI). The programme, which commenced today, is a central part of the Government’s mandate to revitalise the local agricultural sector and reduce the national food import bill.
NATI is designed as a comprehensive training framework aimed at empowering a diverse range of stakeholders, including small and medium-scale farmers, youth, women, and agricultural cooperatives. By providing modern, sustainable, and climate-resilient farming techniques, the initiative seeks to enhance productivity and add value across the industry.
The programme offers practical, market-relevant courses in several key areas:
- Crop and Livestock Production: Hands-on training in traditional and modern farming.
- Agro-Processing: Skills to turn raw produce into value-added products.
- Agri-Technology: The integration of modern technology into daily farming practices.
- Climate-Smart Techniques: Methods designed to ensure farming remains resilient in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, Senator Ravi Ratiram, emphasised that the initiative is built on a community-focused approach. The goal is to make professional agricultural expertise accessible and effective for all citizens.
“By providing our farmers and cooperatives with the skills and tools they need to succeed, we are confident that NATI will play a vital role in driving economic growth, improving food security, and promoting sustainable agriculture practices,” the Minister stated.