Catie, one of the leading agricultural institutions in the region, is set to enhance its collaborative efforts with Caribbean islands to advance the agricultural sector. During a recent inaugural Study Tour of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Ministers of Agriculture, along with women and youth leaders in agriculture in Costa Rica this week.
On Wednesday, the delegation toured the Jardin Botanico Botanical Garden, livestock farm and a cocoa and plantation, hosted by Catie officials who expressed their eagerness to understand the specific needs of these islands and work together to develop tailored programs.
The goal, to transform knowledge and resources into tangible value for the farmers and communities in the Caribbean.
Catie’s Director General, Luis Ernesto Pocasangre Enamorado shared, “We can work together to develop a specific program that responds to your needs, and we hope to hear from you… We are more than welcome to facilitate.“
Highlighting the diverse opportunities available at Catie, the institution emphasized its commitment beyond traditional education. “Catie is not only in the formal education with the Masters programs, but we do have many other opportunities like training programs, study programs, and the special intern account for a professional experience,” Enamorado noted.
These programs aim to provide comprehensive educational experiences and practical training for professionals from the Caribbean.
Moreover, Catie is not limiting its efforts to those visiting the campus.
The Director General stated, “We are also planning to make missions in your countries if that is necessary also. And we can stay there with our team for one week, two weeks in order to make specific training.”
The initiative marks the beginning of a promising relationship between Catie and the Caribbean islands, fostering mutual growth and development.
“This is my message, and I hope that this is just the beginning of this relationship, and we will be expecting more activities,” the Catie Principal stated.
Speaking on the announcement of possible collaboration is Chairman of the OECS Council of Minister: Agriculture Hon Lennox John Andrew’s.
“In terms of potential collaboration between Catie and the Caribbean, especially in enhancing our agricultural sector, there are numerous avenues for cooperation,” Andrew’s declared, adding, “Not only can we engage in cultural exchanges and collaborate on scientific research, but we can also focus on developing young talent. This could involve offering scholarships and internships that allow our youth to gain a scientific understanding of agriculture, which they can then apply back home to develop our agricultural industries.”
The minister plans to discuss partnerships between Catie and Caribbean islands, focusing on scholarships and exchange programs.
They aim to establish a Catie branch in the islands to replicate research locally, thereby improving agricultural productivity.
The shared agricultural produce he says between the regions offers a great opportunity for collaboration, enhancing agricultural output and benefiting both Catie and the OCS countries.
