GSI graduates 86 youth in agriculture, entrepreneurship

This latest graduation marks a new chapter for these young entrepreneurs, who are now poised to contribute to national development through agribusiness and sustainable farming practices. The graduands, who include 46 students (23 men and 23 women) and 41 beneficiaries from the Migration Multi-Partner Trust Fund (Batch 3), underwent 12 months of intensive practical training on smart integrated farming.

The trainees, who are part of the Migration Trust Fund beneficiaries completed the program Hands-on training in modern and sustainable farming techniques with continued support from the government, UNDP, FAO, and the Roots Project.

86 graduates were trained in agriculture and entrepreneurship; 46 students & 41 Migration Trust Fund beneficiaries completed the program on Hands-on training in modern and sustainable farming techniques

Besides, the training also exposed participants to critical areas such as ruminant farming, agroforestry, vegetable gardening, poultry, beekeeping, food processing, biogas production, aquaculture, business planning, and entrepreneurship—a holistic approach aimed at creating self-sufficiency and employment opportunities.

At the event, Bakary Y. Badjie, Minister for Youth and Sports, emphasised government’s continued support to youth empowerment through agriculture.

He reaffirmed that although the official GSI project ended in 2021, the government fully sponsored 46 beneficiaries, covering their accommodation and feeding.

Mandisa Mashologu, UNDP Resident Representative, reiterated UNDP’s longstanding support for GSI, highlighting its role in nurturing young agri-entrepreneurs and fostering sustainable business growth.

She noted that GSI participants recently took part in the FAO Agri-Accelerator Programme designed to  enhance their entrepreneurial skills.

Lamin Saidykhan, governor of North Bank Region, in applauding the initiative, urged beneficiaries to apply the knowledge to create employment and drive economic growth.

Mbye Saine, GSI Project Coordinator, equally commended the dedication of the trainees, particularly People Living With Disabilities (PWDs) including two with hearing impairments, who successfully completed the rigorous training.