Schools participating in the Agricultural Education Training Programme (AETP) in Delta State have been urged to adhere to the implementation guidelines of the programme to ensure its success.
The Executive Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Hon. Samuel Mariere, who gave the advice, described the AETP as a practical and transformative initiative aimed at bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and hands-on agricultural experience in schools.
Speaking at the opening of a one-day sensitization exercise for public primary and junior secondary schools under the 2023 Agricultural Education Training Programme for stakeholders in Asaba, Hon. Mariere emphasized that the programme was designed to equip learners with entrepreneurial skills and foster self-employment while promoting the dignity of labour.
Hon. Mariere further disclosed that 40 schools, comprising both primary and junior secondary schools across the state, participated in the programme.
He noted that the programme is learner-centred and advised that learners must be actively involved in all processes to ensure they are well-acquainted with the practices.
The Chairman commended the State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, for his unwavering commitment to advancing education in the state, particularly through the prompt payment of the state’s counterpart fund, which enabled access to the general fund for the programme.
Mariere also expressed gratitude to the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) for its continued support of basic education in the state.
Earlier, in a welcome address, the Director of Academic Services, Mrs. Okpeh Fransisca, highlighted the importance of agriculture in societal development. She noted that the AETP offers learners opportunities to become self-reliant and contribute to nation-building.
She added that the number of schools benefiting from the programme would continue to increase each year and emphasized the programme’s advocacy for schools to establish their own farms.
Responding on behalf of the participants, Mrs. Etenero Lesley appreciated the Executive Chairman for the laudable initiative to revive school farms. She pledged that they would ensure the programme’s sustenance in the state.
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