Just one year after the launch of the Overland Youth in Agriculture Programme, the Overland Progressive Youth Group (OPYG), is now venturing into the area of Agro-processing. 

On Wednesday 15th May, a team of trainers from the Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Community College (SVGCC), led by Instructor Michker Edwards; a local entrepreneur in agro-processing and farming; conducted a one-day session on value-added production. In attendance were Extension Officer, Mrs. Pamela Ashton, and Lab Technician, Mrs. Josette Tommy, from the Ministry of Agriculture, as well as representatives from the Ministry of National Mobilisation.  In the afternoon, they completed seasoning and pepper mixes. 

This initial activity is expected to raise the awareness among the youth, of the value-added products that can be derived from their farming produce.

The group has been engaged in planting of broad-leaf thyme, scotch bonnet peppers, chives and local hot and flavour peppers.  Most of the planted items were sold to Vincy Fresh, which provided a source of income for the group members.

This joint venture between the Ministries of National Mobilisation and Agriculture, is expected to assist the youth from the area to become self-sufficient and self-employed.


SOURCE: Ministry of National Mobilisation, Social Development, Family, Gender Affairs, Persons with Disability and Youth