Jesus is our Hope
September 17, 2025
Living with clarity
September 17, 2025
On Republic Day, as Trinidad and Tobago reflects on the meaning of self-determination, it is timely to recognise the vital role of youth in agriculture. Just as independence and republicanism gave us the power to chart our own destiny, empowering young people to embrace agriculture ensures that we can also feed ourselves and secure our nation’s future.
Agriculture is more than planting and harvesting. It is the backbone of food security, national identity, and economic resilience. What do I mean by this? In simple terms, agriculture ensures people have a stable, safe, and affordable food supply.
Without strong farming and agro-processing systems, a country depends heavily on imports and is vulnerable to shortages. Crops, farming traditions, and food define a nation’s culture and heritage.
Agriculture shapes festivals, family life, local pride. A strong agricultural sector helps economies with job creation for skilled and unskilled labour, recover from shocks like pandemics, hurricanes, and global market changes.
We need youth in agriculture now more than ever! It is crucial because they are the future producers, processors, and innovators who will sustain our food systems.
In a world that is now tech savvy and artificial intelligence dependant, youth will be more open to adopting technologies like hydroponics, aquaponics, climate-smart farming, and digital agriculture. By entering agriculture, young people will strengthen community resilience and reduce dependence on imports, making the Republic more self-reliant.
Just like every other sector, there are the many challenges that the agricultural sector faces. I recall my own experiences starting from my academic study into hands-on practice, consultancy, and advocacy. However, I have no regrets as agriculture is one of the most rewarding career paths that one can take. Consistency is always key! Republic Day is a reminder that true independence lies not only in political freedom but also in economic and food sovereignty.
For Trinidad and Tobago to thrive as a republic, it must empower its youth to take the lead in building a vibrant, innovative agricultural sector.
Investing in young farmers, fishers, and agro-entrepreneurs ensures that our nation will not only celebrate its independence but also safeguard its ability to feed every citizen, create meaningful livelihoods, and protect the environment for generations to come.
As we commemorate this Republic Day, let us recommit to supporting youth in agriculture. They are not just the future of the sector, rather, they are the guardians of our food security and the cultivators of a sustainable Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.
Send questions to rayannaboodram@hotmail.com
