The Guyana School of Agriculture (GSA) has celebrated the graduation of 102 students, marking its largest graduating cohort in five years and highlighting growing interest in agricultural education and professional training in Guyana.
The graduation ceremony was held on Tuesday at the Pegasus Hotel, where Minister of Agriculture Zulfikar Mustapha congratulated the graduates and highlighted the importance of developing skilled professionals to support the country’s agricultural sector.
The number of graduates represents an increase from 84 in 2025. Women made up the majority of the graduating class, with 65 graduates, compared with 37 men. Of the total, 66 students achieved credit or distinction.
“This achievement reflects your dedication, discipline, and commitment to learning,” Mustapha said, noting that increased participation by women and young people was an encouraging sign for the future of agricultural education.
The ceremony also marked the first graduating cohort from the Certificate in Livestock Production and Management programme, introduced to strengthen skills and expertise within Guyana’s livestock industry.
Mustapha stressed that expanding domestic agricultural production requires trained personnel with knowledge of livestock management, animal health and efficient production practices. He urged the graduates to apply their training to improving the performance and sustainability of the sector.
To support practical learning, more than $44 million was invested in the school’s livestock farm this year. The investment included approximately $21.8 million for the construction of a new training centre and office, facilities intended to improve instruction in livestock production, animal health and veterinary public health.
The minister also encouraged graduates to pursue continuous professional development, emphasising that agricultural workers must keep pace with emerging technologies, evolving production methods and changing market demands.
He cautioned that qualifications alone would not be sufficient without the continued application and expansion of knowledge. Graduates were encouraged to explore innovative techniques, reassess traditional practices where necessary and develop practical solutions to challenges confronting farmers and producers.
Climate change and rising expectations for food production standards were also identified as important challenges requiring a skilled and adaptable agricultural workforce. Mustapha emphasised that innovation, technical competence and practical experience would be essential in responding to these pressures.
Established in 1963, the Guyana School of Agriculture has produced 4,997 graduates over its history. Its alumni have contributed to the sector in a range of capacities, including farming, agricultural extension, animal health, forestry, agro-processing, research and leadership.
The latest graduation underscores the institution’s continuing role in preparing professionals to meet Guyana’s agricultural needs. As the country works to expand production and strengthen food security, investment in agricultural education and practical training remains an important part of building a capable workforce for the future.