Srinagar, Dec 29: In a vibrant exchange of ideas aimed at cultivating the next generation of agriculturists, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology-Kashmir (SKUAST-K) hosted a one-day brainstorming session with over 50 school principals from across Kashmir.
The event, themed ‘Farm to School: Catch Them Young,” was aimed to explore innovative ways to integrate agricultural education into school curriculums.
Prof Faheema Mushtaq and Dr Ajaz Malik, the organizing secretary, presented an overview of the “Farm to School” project, outlining its mission to nurture a passion for agriculture through age-appropriate, hands-on learning experiences.
Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-K, Prof Nazir, who was the chief guest at the occasion, emphasized the urgent need to cultivate an early interest in agriculture among young minds. He underscored the immense potential of Kashmir’s fertile land and stressed the critical role of skilled personnel in unlocking its agricultural wealth. Prof Nazir envisioned the “Farm to School” initiative as a fertile ground for sowing the seeds of future agriculturists, entrepreneurs, and informed citizens.
Dr G N Var, President Private School Association, commended SKUAST-K, for taking this proactive step and expressed his confidence that the session’s insights would translate into tangible reforms in school curriculums, enriching the learning experience for students.
Director, Research, Prof Haroon Naik, emphasized the potential for school children to engage in age-appropriate research activities, nurturing a deeper understanding of agricultural principles and sparking innovative thinking.
Dean, Faculty of Horticulture, Prof Shabir Ahmed Wani, highlighted the importance of experiential learning in agricultural education. OSD to the Vice Chancellor, Dr Azmat Alam Khan, shed light on the cutting-edge advancements in agricultural education at SKUAST-K. The event concluded with a vote of thanks from Dr Shahnaz Mufti.
