SVG signs MOU with University of Guyana

A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed between St Vincent and the Grenadines and the University of Guyana at the conclusion of the OECS Fast Strategy Summit held from August 31 to September 1 at the National Insurance Services Conference Room in St Vincent.

The MOU facilitates both countries through the development and implementation of programmes impacting general areas of food and nutrition security of mutual interest, working together to secure financing for programmes for further development of business opportunities and the provision of technical expertise to the Ministry of Agriculture of St Vincent and the Grenadines, a release from the Food and Nutrition Security Centre of CELAC said.

The arrangement will see the provision of accredited training for categories of specialists involved in farming, extension services, agro-processing, herbalists, and other health and personal care professionals involved in the prescription of herbal preparations in the form of health supplements, personal care products and bioactive beverages among other general areas of cooperation.

Minister of Agriculture Saboto Caesar thanked the Government and people of Guyana adding that there is an anticipation in sending more students to Guyana.

Caesar said, “over the last five years we have sent approximately 10 young persons to study Agriculture from St Vincent and the Grenadines in Guyana.” Caesar noted the importance of creating a diversified platform with a capacity for the transfer of human resource.

The Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry at The University of Guyana, Dr Lawrence Lewis revealed that the university is leading in a number of areas including research; exploring aquaponics and aquaculture, with an analysis on returns on investment on fish harvested and vegetables grown; utilising local feed to grow fishes, livestock and ruminants.

The Dean also disclosed that the Faculty of Agriculture offers courses which include: BSc. and Associate Degree of Science in Forestry (Animal Science and Agronomy), BSc. in Food Science, BSc. in Agri Entrepreneurship and Management, MSc. in Agro-Technoloogy and Business and a PhD in Biodiversity.

Plant Pathologist, Biotechnologist and Regional Agribusiness Advisor, Professor Leonard O’Garro is also a signatory of this mutual agreement and is an advocate for collaborations indicative of development within the Agriculture sector.