FAO and the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Rural Development (MoA) in Saint Lucia celebrated the graduation from Farmer Field Schools (FFS) of thirty-two farmers. The FFSs were executed under the European Union (EU) funded Programme for Capacity Building Related to Multilateral Environmental Agreements in ACP Countries Phase III (ACP MEAs 3) and designed to promote sustainable, eco-system-friendly agricultural practices.

Spanning from August to November 2023, the FFS provided an immersive experience for farmers to delve into hands-on, discovery-based learning. The learning program emphasized innovative and sustainable solutions for addressing pest and disease issues affecting their agricultural production. Under the guidance of extension officers and crop protection specialists, participants explored Integrated Pest Management (IPM) techniques tailored to local crops. This included the use of pheromone traps, testing of biopesticides, production of organic fertilizers, and conducting agroecosystem analysis (AESA), which supports informed planning and decision-making.

Christopher Montoute, a seasoned farmer with over 15 years of experience, swears by the transformative impact of the FFS. He noted that he had not lost any sorrel plants and his crop was more productive than it had ever been before. He attributed this achievement to the use of AESA, which helped him understand what was needed on his farm and take pre-emptive actions.

Alison Francois, a new entrant to farming, commented on the FFS experience: “It has enabled me to take the vast and detailed education from the different workshops and utilize them regularly, whether it be preparing an AESA, establishing my soil type, finding ways to harvest, as well as integrated pest management. Everything taught at FFS has been invaluable and I will be eternally grateful that I was given this opportunity to participate.”

The graduation ceremony was a reward to the dedication and perseverance of the participants through the whole process. Farmers shared their experiences and lessons learnt through different dynamic activities. Certificates were conferred to all graduates with special awards recognizing exceptional contributions. The event culminated in a symbolic candlelight ceremony, signifying the transmission of knowledge and the spirit of community that defined the FFS experience.

Looking ahead, Ms. KimAnh Tempelman, the ACP-MEAs 3 Global Coordinator said: “Together with Saint Lucia’s Ministry of Agriculture, the FAO hopes to share the accomplishments, best practices and successes that have been achieved in Saint Lucia with other Eastern Caribbean countries, to expand capacity in sustainable agriculture and help create more resilient agrifood systems that promote sound pesticide management practices, while safeguarding the biodiversity of the region.”

The graduation ceremony not only marked the end of training phase but also the beginning of a new chapter for Saint Lucian agriculture. With the newfound skills, these graduates have the opportunity to be part of the change towards a future where sustainable farming practices flourish, ensuring food security, environmental stewardship, and prosperity for their country.