4-H in Trinidad Gets Ready for Root/Tuber Crop Production
The 4-H Leaders Council of Trinidad and Tobago continues its national effort to promote root crop production in schools, strengthening food security and contributing to the reduction of the country’s heavy food import bill.
Natasha Lee, President of the 4-H Executive Team, explained that teachers who volunteer as 4-H Leaders participated in a series of two-day root and tuber production training sessions conducted by the Ministry of Agriculture. These events took place in the North on November 5th and 6th, followed by sessions in the South on November 13th and 14th.
Lee noted that the overall goal of the initiative is to encourage young people to begin agricultural production at home and deepen family involvement in food production.
“We see root crops as a very versatile product that can be used in several different ways,” she said.
She added that it is essential for teachers to receive proper training through the Ministry of Agriculture to support these goals.
“Root crop production lends itself to what we are striving for, which is sustainable agricultural practices,” she said.
According to Lee, many schools have not yet engaged in root crop cultivation or entered any of 4-H’s root crop-based competitions. As a result, the Council will emphasize encouraging students to grow food at home, including container gardening.
The organisation’s annual garden competition is expected to be launched in January 2026, with special recognition to be given to teachers for their voluntary service. The competition will also feature container gardening at students’ homes and agro-processing components.
While some funding has been secured, Lee noted that additional support will be required as more schools participate and as the importance of sustainable agriculture grows. She acknowledged the support of national awardee Ramdeo Boondoo, recipient of the Chaconia Gold Medal, for his significant contribution to agricultural development in Trinidad and Tobago.
During the North training, the Vice President of the 4-H Executive, Mr. Marvin Clarke, was present and expressed his satisfaction with the session’s success. He proudly held his certificate of participation and completion, joining fellow Voluntary Leaders from primary and secondary schools in the northern region who also completed the training.
Teachers across both training cycles received instruction in the production of cassava, yams, eddoes, sweet potatoes, and other major root crops.
Additionally, training for Tobago Voluntary Leaders is currently being organised and will be communicated through the Tobago County Coordinator, Ms. Gamali Waldron, once schedules are confirmed.
Discover 4-H Clubs near you and consider volunteering. Let us build 4-H community spirit together with the goal to make the best better!
By Shastri Boodan
Revised Edition by Ms. Elizabeth Theodore