One St. Vincent Group (OSV) has donated EC$5,000 in cutting-edge agricultural equipment and supplies to the St. Vincent Grammar School (SVGS).
The company said the donation is part of its commitment to supporting education and agriculture, facilitated through the Zero Hunger Trust Fund (ZHTF).
SVGS launched its agricultural science programme at the onset of the school year and recognising the need for essential supplies to kickstart this innovative initiative, OSV stepped in with support.
The contribution includes a state-of-the-art drip line irrigation kit, a plastic mulch wheelbarrow, as well as an assortment of tools such as rakes, shovels, pruning shears, and cutlasses.
Zion Cambridge, a Form 4 student at the school, conveyed gratitude on behalf of the agriculture science students, emphasising the transformative impact of the tools.
“We are extremely grateful for the donation of the hand tools as we no longer need to use our hands to plant the crops,” he said.
Kenley Ward, sales specialist in the hardware department at OSV, expressed optimism about the contribution’s potential impact on the agricultural sector in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
“We look forward to this donation developing the potential of the agricultural sector here in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.”
Brendon Bique, agriculture science teacher at SVGS, extended his appreciation to OSV, highlighting the significance of the drip line irrigation system in streamlining the students’ morning routines.
“The drip line irrigation system will greatly reduce the time for the students in the morning as they would no longer need a hose to water the crops.”
OSV said it is committed to participating actively in the programme’s ongoing success.
Kimeisha Bailey, marketing team leader at OSV, expressed enthusiasm about future engagements with the students.
“We look forward to checking in on the students to see the progress of their livestock and crop farms. Our team will be returning on occasion to educate the students on technological developments in the field of agriculture through live demonstrations of varying farming equipment available at OSV. Our aim is to increase awareness that they no longer need to rely solely on traditional methods if they decide to pursue a career in farming.”
The company said the collaboration with ZHTF and SVG marks a significant stride towards nurturing the next generation of agricultural leaders and fostering sustainable farming practices.
“OSV remains steadfast in its commitment to empowering communities and driving positive change in agriculture through strategic initiatives,” the company said.