Ugandan farmers learn sustainability lessons funded by the National Ploughing Association
Memembers of the Mbale VIVA Co-op in eastern Uganda, Mr Itiakorit and Mr Ajak are currently attending the prestigious Baraka Agricultural College in Kenya, on a €5,000 NPA scholarship.
The NPA says both scholars are thriving in the experience.
On completion of the course in sustainable agriculture and rural development, they will return home to work the land and use their new knowledge to help their local community.
The 16-month course, which began in the Baraka Agriculture College last summer, is educating and training the two students to be efficient, sustainable farmers, and trainers of others and facilitators of community development.
NPA managing director, Anna May McHugh, said: “The Ploughing Association is delighted to be in a position to fund these students.
"The total cost of €5,000 is covering their academic course fees, accommodation, food and travel.
“This is an incredibly worthwhile cause and one very close to the NPA’s core ploughing and sustainable farming values.
"Both of the students Julius and Solomon, are very impressive and once they have graduated from the course they will be empowered with knowledge and expert techniques to assist themselves and their neighbours.”
Mike Burke of VIVA added: “These two farmers will return to their community and have made a commitment to mentor and train fellow farmers for five years.
"They will be an educational resource for their community.
"The co-operation of VIVA and NPA in this unique project (which is part-funded by Irish Aid) is a unique example of solidarity between Irish farmers and vets and their colleagues in the developing world.”
