One way of achieving food sovereignty in the country, if not now, at least in the future, is to encourage more Filipino students to pursue degrees in agriculture-related fields by raising awareness about the importance and career opportunities in the industry.
The government should provide more generous scholarships and financial assistance to students who are interested in studying agriculture to make it more accessible and attractive.
There should be collaboration between universities and research institutions to develop specialized programs and courses in agriculture science to offer a more comprehensive education in the field.
Creation of partnerships with industry leaders and experts to provide mentorship and hands-on training opportunities for students is a must to gain practical experience in the field.
Filipino capital should invest in research and development in agriculture to attract more students and professionals to the industry and encourage innovation and advancements in the field.
There should be an aggressive promotion of networking and collaboration among agriculture scientists and professionals through conferences, workshops, and other events to foster a supportive and collaborative community.
Establish internships and apprenticeship programs with local farms, agricultural companies, and research institutions to provide students with hands-on experience and exposure to real-world challenges and solutions in agriculture.
Encourage interdisciplinary collaboration by integrating agriculture science into other related fields such as environmental science, biology, engineering, and business to provide a holistic approach to addressing agricultural challenges.
Let’s organize career fairs, job fairs, and networking events specifically for agriculture students and professionals to connect them with potential employers and opportunities in the industry.
Institutions such as Landbank should support the development of agricultural entrepreneurship by providing resources and training for students interested in starting their own agricultural businesses or ventures.
Furthermore, the Filipino agriculture industry players and the government should collaborate with international organizations, universities, and experts to bring in global perspectives, knowledge, and best practices in agriculture science to enrich the education and training of Filipino agriculture scientists.
In conclusion, developing more agriculture scientists in the Philippines requires a multifaceted approach that involves raising awareness, providing education and training opportunities, fostering collaboration and innovation, and supporting the growth and development of the industry. By investing in the education and training of future agriculture professionals, promoting research and innovation, and creating a supportive and collaborative environment, the Philippines can cultivate a strong and skilled workforce of agriculture scientists who can contribute to the sustainable growth and success of the agricultural sector in the country.
(Edwin M. Cordevilla is a multi-awarded writer, poet and author of several books. He is a former undersecretary of the Presidential Communications Office. You may send your comments at edcordevilla@gmail.com.)