A SIX-MONTH pilot programme to train young people in dairy farming got underway yesterday although sources at the Jamaica Dairy Farmers Federation described the number of applications received and the level of interest shown in the programme as disappointing.
Yesterday was also the deadline for applications for persons who wish to participate in the project.
Minister of Agriculture, Roger Clarke has praised the initiative as a step in the right direction, saying it would help to strengthen rural enterprise by empowering the youth of farm families.
The training programme is being initiated by the Ministry of Agriculture/Jamaica Dairy Farmers Federation and Heart/NTA, at no cost to the student. Minister Clarke said that this move was one part of the strategy to increase Jamaica's milk production from the 20 per cent market share it now holds.
The programme, is an outgrowth of the Memorandum of Understanding which was signed in December 1999 by the Ministry, HEART and the Dairy Federation. The MOU is aimed at achieving self-sufficiency through sustainable milk production on a competitive basis.
As part of the programme development, a six-month pilot course aimed at young members of dairy farm families and existing dairy farmers is offered to current farmers and students and is aimed at engendering a competent, resource pool for the dairy industry with a particular emphasis on milk production.
The training programme will include a one-week orientation, three months of theory and practical training at the Ebony Park Academy in Clarendon after a comprehensive, three-month, on-farm experience.
