The Akwa Ibom State government, through the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, has started giving farming supplies to public primary schools in the state's three senatorial districts, aiming to encourage interest in agriculture and decrease high food prices.
At St. Patrick’s Primary School, Iboko Offot, Uyo, the state Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr. Offiong Offor, highlighted the importance of early education in laying a strong foundation for children's future.
The commissioner urged head teachers of public primary schools to inspire a love for agriculture in their students, believing that this will help boost agricultural production and prevent potential food shortages in the country.
He explained, “We are here today to provide agricultural supplies to St. Primary School students because we believe that nurturing a passion for agriculture in children will stay with them as they grow.”
He advised heads of public primary schools to use school land for farming in order to increase food production and reduce high food costs in the market.
The commissioner praised Governor Umo Eno for facilitating the distribution and mentioned that the ministry team will monitor the progress of the school farms, with plans to reward the best performing schools in the state.
The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Mrs. Mary Bassey, expressed gratitude to the teachers of the host school for educating the students.
The Head Teacher of St. Patrick’s Primary School, Iboko Offot, Uyo, Mrs. Ekaette Bassey, stated that the distribution of supplies will help increase food production and revenue, with a commitment to making good use of them.
In their separate messages, government officials praised the governor's proactive approach to addressing the current food challenges and emphasized the importance of developing students' interest in agriculture for self-employment and income generation.
They reiterated the need to foster an interest in agriculture among students so they can gain skills for self-employment and income generation.
The event included the symbolic presentation of improved varieties of cassava cuttings, pumpkin seeds, coconut seedlings, and maize seeds, among others.