-Largest cohort in five years
102 young people on Tuesday graduated from the Guyana School of Agriculture (GSA), making it the largest graduating class in five years.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony at Pegasus, the Minister of Agriculture Zulfikar Mustapha said the number of graduates had significantly increased from 84 last year.
Women accounted for 65 graduates, while 37 were men. Of the 102 graduates, 66 earned a credit or distinction.
“This achievement reflects your dedication, discipline, and commitment to learning,” he said.
The minister added that the growing participation of women and young people in agricultural education encourages the development of the institution.
The ceremony also recognised the first graduates of the Certificate in Livestock Production and Management programme, recently introduced to support the development of the country’s livestock industry.
Minister Mustapha said expanding domestic production requires trained professionals with skills in livestock management, animal health and production efficiency.
“I encourage you to use your training to make a meaningful contribution to this important area of agriculture,” he told the graduates.
As a result of this effort, more than $44 million was invested in the school’s livestock farm this year, including approximately $21.8 million for a new training centre and office.
The minister said the facility is strengthening practical instruction in livestock production, animal health and veterinary public health, giving students the hands-on experience needed for work in the sector.
He also urged graduates to continue learning beyond their certificates and diplomas, noting that agricultural professionals must adapt to changing production methods, new technology and increasingly competitive markets.
“The knowledge you have gained must be continually developed and applied or you will remain stagnant,” he said.
Graduates were further encouraged to explore new techniques, question established practices where better alternatives existed, and develop solutions to problems facing farmers and producers.
He explained that climate change and demands for higher standards are placing additional pressure on food production, making practical skills and innovative thinking increasingly important.
Meanwhile, since its establishment in 1963, GSA has produced 4,997 graduates. They have gone on to work as farmers, extension officers, animal health professionals, foresters, agro-processors, researchers and agricultural leaders.
The agriculture minister emphasised that this expansion reflects the need for agricultural education to respond to changes in society and the economy.
