China to spearhead agricultural training programme in Antigua

A hands-on training program centred on hybrid pepper breeding, seed production, and cultivation practices is scheduled for farmers and industry players to enhance the capabilities of local agriculture in Antigua & Barbuda. The program is expected to last for one month.

Yuan Longping High-Tech Agriculture Co Ltd, a well-known Chinese agricultural enterprise named after the “Father of Hybrid Rice,” will be leading the program starting today. It is a part of a bilateral agreement between the People’s Republic of China and Antigua and Barbuda.

According to Owolabi Elabanjo, Chief Extension Officer, "this is one of a series of training programs we've

agreed upon to improve and increase our pepper production on the island."

Credit: Ministry of Agriculture - Antigua & Barbuda photo.

This program, which is a component of a bigger collaboration between the two nations, will address a number of topics related to pepper cultivation, such as greenhouse building, pest management, breeding methods, seed production, and post-harvest processing.

Along with learning about China's national circumstances and reformation achievements, participants will also acquire theoretical knowledge, an awareness of the country's pepper production and development status, soilless cultivation techniques, and the industrial development of peppers.

Up to sixty local participants will hear from ten professionals, including researchers Huang Yanwu, Dr. Miao Wu, and Huang Weiguang, as they impart their knowledge.