The National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) hosted an Open Day event earlier today at the Rose Hall Primary School on the Corentyne, where students from secondary schools across the region were invited to explore various booths showcasing agricultural advancements and innovations.
During the opening ceremony, Regional Executive Officer Narindra Persaud emphasized the critical role of agriculture in Guyana’s economy, reflecting on the People’s Progressive Party/Civic’s (PPP/C) long-standing commitment to the sector. “Agriculture has always been the backbone of Guyana’s economy,” Persaud noted, adding that the PPP/C has a proud history of championing the rights of agricultural workers and ensuring the growth of the sector.
He further highlighted the historical contributions of the party, stating, “Since the days of Dr. Cheddi Jagan, the PPP/C has consistently stood up for the hard-working men and women in the fields—the rice farmers and the sugar workers—ensuring they have the support and resources needed to thrive.”
Persaud also underscored the cultural significance of agriculture in the country, explaining that for many Guyanese, farming is more than just an economic activity. “Our government has always recognized that agriculture is a way of life for many of our people. It is essential not only for our national economy but also for food security and rural livelihoods.”
Under the leadership of President Irfaan Ali, Persaud said, the commitment to agriculture has intensified, with the government making significant investments to modernize the sector. “President Ali’s administration has prioritized technology and innovation in agriculture, ensuring that the sector remains sustainable and competitive in a global market,” he remarked.
The Regional Executive Officer also praised the work of Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha, who has been instrumental in the sector’s progress. “Minister Mustapha has worked tirelessly to ensure that farmers across the country have access to the resources they need, whether it’s through subsidies for critical inputs like fertilizer and seeds or through initiatives that promote crop diversification and climate-smart agriculture,” Persaud said. He added that Mustapha’s leadership has been crucial in guiding farmers through challenges like climate change, the global food crisis, and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Professor Gomathinayagam Subramanian, Plant Pathologist, Soil Microbiologist, and Director of the University of Guyana’s Tain Campus, echoed Persaud’s sentiments, acknowledging the vital role agriculture plays in the country’s development.
The event provided students and attendees with valuable insights into the future of agriculture in Guyana, reinforcing its importance as a cornerstone of the nation’s economy and a pathway to sustainable development.
