MAKE AGRICULTURE EDUCATION COMPULSORY FOR PUPILS- SESTUZ

Government should make agriculture compulsory in schools so that pupils get engaged in agriculture practices at an early stage and contribute to the country’s socio economy, Secondary Schools Teachers Union of Zambia (SESTUZ) General Secretary Sitibekiso Wamuyuwa has said.

Speaking to The Scoop, Mr. Wamuyuwa said if agriculture was to be made compulsory in schools it would allow the pupils to know the basics of farming and develop an early interest for the sustainability of the country.

“Government should make it mandatory for all pupils to learn agriculture science as it is beyond the subject itself. We are at a stage where unemployment rates are rising every day, so once the pupils complete their secondary school level, they can become entrepreneurs and create jobs in agriculture,” he said.

Mr. Wamuyuma emphasized the potential of the agricultural sector to provide employment opportunities for school leavers and unemployed youths.

“The agriculture sector is capable of employing a large number of school leavers who are currently roaming the streets and it would also give the school leavers an opportunity to venture into agriculture as a business. Therefore, the Government should consider making agricultural science a compulsory subject in schools to engage children in agricultural activities from an early age,” he said.

He said school leavers were capable of contributing to the growth of the agriculture sector in Zambia adding that it would also decongest other careers believed to be the most job secure in the country.

“Our pupils are capable of contributing to the success of the agriculture sector because they are still young and energetic. All they need is motivation. However, the subject can also decongest some careers such as nursing and teaching which are believed to be the most job secure and more employed in the country. When they develop the interest at an early stage, they would consider venturing into agro business, aquaculture, livestock, horticulture among others,” he said.

He said agriculture education was crucial in schools though it would help pupils understand and appreciate the importance of farming and food production.

“Agriculture education in schools is crucial for several reasons though it gives a better understanding to our pupils on how agriculture affects our daily lives and also teaches them about the environment, sustainability and importance of practicing healthy eating habits,” he said.