‘A milestone for sustainable agriculture and education’: handing over ceremony of irrigation system at local school

In keeping with the advancement of agricultural education and sustainable farming, the new irrigation system at North East Comprehensive School was officially handed over from the Climate Classrooms Initiative, in collaboration with BloomBox Dominica, on Tuesday, February 18.

According to a press release from Climate Classrooms Initiative, this innovative system aims to bolster the school’s agricultural program and act as an example for other schools seeking to incorporate hands-on agricultural methods into their curriculum. The project forms part of the “Amplifying Rural and Indigenous Youth Voices on Climate Justice in the Caribbean” Project, specifically component one.

The Climate Classroom Initiative is self-described as “…developed and implemented by the Climate Justice Movement Dominica, focuses on empowering youth in the Kalinago Territory to understand and take action on climate change. Through hands-on experiences and practical projects, the initiative equips students with the knowledge, skills, and passion to advocate for climate justice and sustainability. ”

The project lists itself as being  “funded by the Open Society Foundation and implemented by Young People for Action on Climate Change.”

The handover ceremony took place on the school grounds, with attendance from key stakeholders, including the Project Lead and their team, the Principal of North East Comprehensive School, representatives from the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Agriculture officials, and a representative from BloomBox Dominica, shared the statement.

Ferdison Valmond, acting as Project Lead for the “Amplifying Rural and Indigenous Youth Voices on Climate Justice in the Caribbean Project”, conveyed profound satisfaction regarding the project’s culmination. He emphasized the anticipated positive effects on the student body and the wider community, indicating his high regard for the project’s potential.

“Today marks a significant achievement in our efforts to provide hands-on learning experiences for students in agricultural studies. The installation of this irrigation system is a tangible representation of the future we are shaping—one that values both education and sustainability. This project wouldn’t have been possible without the collective efforts of our dedicated team and our partners, and we are proud to see the positive impact it will have on the students and the surrounding community,” said Valmond.

Sariah Robin, the Principal of North East Comprehensive School, reportedly expressed enthusiasm for the benefits the system would provide to students, stating that it would significantly improve their learning experience and enhance the school’s agricultural program.  She added that this irrigation system’s successful installation is part of a larger effort to improve climate change and agricultural education nationally, aiming to equip future farmers and agricultural experts with the necessary skills to navigate future challenges.

Meanwhile, Ms. Nadia Ferrol, assuming the role of Acting Chief Education Officer, highlighted the significance of supporting agricultural education initiatives during her address: “This handing over ceremony, of irrigation systems, is more than an investment in agriculture, but a commitment to empowering our youth, with the knowledge and tools they need to shape a greener, more resilient future.”

In closing, BloomBox Dominica and the Climate Classrooms Initiative acknowledged their gratitude to the Ministry of Education, the school administration, and all participating schools for their support and collaboration in realizing this initiative.

Ferdison Valmond audio:

Sariah Robin audio:

Nadia Ferrol audio: