new $21.8 million training centre and office is being established at the Guyana School of Agriculture to strengthen practical learning in livestock production, animal health and veterinary public health.
The facility forms part of the government’s $44 million investment in the school’s livestock farm this year.
Speaking at the school’s graduation ceremony on Tuesday, Minister of Agriculture Zulfikar Mustapha said the investment will help equip students with the skills needed for a modern agricultural sector.
“It provides an important foundation for ensuring that students receive the hands-on training required by a modern agricultural sector,” he said.
The minister also recognised the first graduates of the Certificate in Livestock Production and Management programme, marking their achievement as an important milestone for the institution and the country’s livestock industry.
He said expanding domestic production required trained people who understood livestock management, animal health, production efficiency and sustainable farming practices.
“I encourage you to use your training to make a meaningful contribution to this important area of agriculture,” Minister Mustapha told the graduates.
The agriculture minister also called on the school to introduce short courses for practising farmers, with an emphasis on practical skills to improve yields and the quality of produce.
“Bring farmers together, train them in best practices,” he urged.
Digital farm records were already helping the institution promote agricultural management informed by data and the collaboration with the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) was also supporting training for farmers and extension officers.
Further investment is planned, with tenders for the construction of a Centre of Excellence at the school expected before the end of 2026.
The minister also announced that President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali is expected to commission a situation room and data centre at the ministry by the end of October.