The Cross River State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), in collaboration with the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), Abuja, has empowered pupils and teachers with practical agricultural knowledge through an entrepreneurship and life skills training programme.
The training was conducted under the 2024 Agricultural Education Training Programme (AETP) for selected public primary schools across the state.
The programme, themed “Growing Young Minds Through Agriculture,” held at PCN Primary School, Calabar; Government Primary School, Asu Egbe, Ikom; and St. Andrews Primary School, Ishibori, Ogoja.
Declaring the programme open, the Executive Chairman of SUBEB, Rtd. Magistrate Fedelia Okpo Ene, emphasized the importance of exposing young learners to agriculture.
“Agriculture is not just about farming; it is about building a future of self-reliance for our children,” she said.
She added, “When we equip young minds with practical skills early, we prepare them to become productive and independent citizens.”
The Chairman also announced a ₦50,000 cash reward for outstanding participants to encourage excellence.
In his remarks, the Director of Administration, Mr. Joseph Effiong, said the initiative was designed to instill the value of agriculture and build foundational life skills among pupils.
The Director of Academic Services, Miss Caroline Ana, noted that agricultural education promotes creativity, innovation, and self-reliance.
Facilitator Mr. Thomas Worna described agriculture as both a source of food and a tool for developing responsibility and critical thinking.
Participants were engaged in practical sessions, including demonstrations on land preparation and basic cultivation techniques.
The highlight of the programme was the presentation of cash prizes, with Victoria Effiong Okon emerging overall winner, followed by Precious Gabriel Akpan and Chibike Daniel Kelechi.
Speaking on behalf of participants, Mary Thomas Bassey described the training as impactful, noting it has inspired her to start a backyard garden.
Joy Ndoma
