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 supported Clustered under school and out of school youth Engaged in Livestock farming and Crop farming Support 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!