Young Vincentians Explore Future of Farming Through ROOTS Camp 

By S.Browne. Updated 2:05 p.m., Tuesday, August 4, 2026, Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4).

Forty-five children have gained exposure to modern agricultural practices, technology and entrepreneurship through the 2026 ROOTS: Youth in Agriculture Summer Camp, as the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Rural Transformation continues efforts to encourage greater youth involvement in the sector.

The two-week programme, which ran from July 20 to 31, 2026, was implemented by the Rural Transformation Unit in collaboration with POSHELLE and concluded with a closing ceremony at the Girl Guides Association Headquarters on Friday, July 31.

Participants were introduced to a range of agricultural practices and technologies, including artificial intelligence in agriculture, grafting, home garden design, soil analysis, drip irrigation, hydroponics, livestock production, value-added food processing, agro-based crafting and digital content creation.

The programme also included educational field visits and recreational activities, allowing participants to gain practical knowledge while exploring the wider opportunities available within the agriculture sector.

Through its collaboration with the initiative, POSHELLE supported the programme’s focus on creativity and value-added production, exposing participants to agro-based crafting and entrepreneurial approaches linked to agriculture.

The ROOTS: Youth in Agriculture Summer Camp was first introduced in 2025 as part of efforts by the Ministry’s Rural Transformation Unit to expose young people to opportunities within the agri-food sector. The initiative has continued in 2026, with participants gaining further exposure to modern agricultural practices, technology and entrepreneurship.

During the closing ceremony, participants reflected on the knowledge they gained, friendships formed and experiences shared throughout the programme. Awards were also presented to winners of the Best TikTok Video Competition, recognising participants’ creativity in promoting agriculture through digital platforms.

Remarks were delivered by Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Rural Transformation, Hon Israel Bruce; Chief Agricultural Officer (Ag) Marcus Richards; Permanent Secretary (Ag), Colville King; and Research Officer within the Rural Transformation Unit, Nesta Stoddard-Henry.

The officials commended the students on their interest in agriculture and encouraged them to continue exploring opportunities within the field.

The Ministry said initiatives such as ROOTS are aimed at equipping young people with practical agricultural knowledge, entrepreneurial skills and exposure to innovation and technology in modern farming.

As agriculture continues to evolve, programmes such as ROOTS seek to show young Vincentians that the sector extends beyond traditional farming and includes areas such as technology, creativity, processing and business development.

Other images from the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Rural Transformation.

END