By: Leota Marc Membrere. Avele College is taking a step forward in agricultural science with the launching of the School Gardening Programme allowing them to get hands on experience in vegetable farming.
Minister of Education and Culture, Aiono. Dr. Alec Ekeroma referred to the initiative as learning spaces where students can grow crops and learn about nutrition, climate, biodiversity and business.
The project is the outcome of collective work of the Ministry of Education, Samoa’s Agriculture Ministry, and the Food and Agriculture Organisation (F.A.O.)
Speaking to the students of Avele College on Thursday, Aiono told them that in Samoa the land is part of who we are.
“Our ancestors lived close to nature and grew with their own food, now through the Samoa school garden programme, we are bringing that knowledge back into schools by building up agricultural sites.”
The students will use science, apply mathematics and connect with the Samoan culture in every harvest, Aiono says.
However, this makes agricultural science fun, practical and a part of everyday life.
“This programme shows what we can achieve when we work together,” said the Minister.
Aiono gave thanks to partners involved in the project; the F.A.O. and M.A.F. for their support and commitment, and special appreciation to the Agriculture Science Department and the Principal of Avele College.
“Together we are connecting education with agriculture, turning ideas into action, and policy into real progress.”
Aiono asked that all present acknowledge the roles of ‘our families’ and ‘our communities’.
Noting that their continued support is a foundation that helps these gardens and students thrive.
This initiative aligns with the nation’s national goals for education, health and food security, and supports her sustainable development goals and Samoa’s commitment to climate adaptation, but most importantly it empowers our children to become agents of change.
Also present at the event were Associate Minister of the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries Aiolupotea Misa Tony Aiolupo, and F.A.O. Representative Fata Masoe who jointly cut the ribbon officially declaring the garden programme open.
Photos: Leota Marc Membrere
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