Andy Shuai Liu, Chinese journalist, It is producing online communications with the World Bank, which focuses on issues related to the environment, energy and natural resources.
What type of career do you aspire to have?? Do you want to be an artist, a businessman or policymaker?. Or have you ever wanted to work in agriculture?? I wouldn't be surprised if you said no..
When evaluating career alternatives, many young people in the developing world tend to avoid agricultural jobs. Yo, as well, I once felt disenchanted with the small villages and rice fields I saw every day as a child. According to traditional beliefs, Agriculture means an outdated lifestyle with few opportunities for youth.
But later I learned that I was wrong. Much evidence shows us that agriculture offers young people a viable path to success and a sustainable future. In other words, I believe that youth can, and must, choose agriculture. These are five reasons:
1. Agriculture is important for the future of development.
Agriculture is up to four times more effective than other sectors in reducing poverty. Increasingly, The world is counting on agriculture to produce more nutritious food and improve the livelihoods of a rapidly growing population., especially the poor. What could be more meaningful than being part of an effective solution to such a crucial challenge??
2. Agriculture can be a gold mine for young entrepreneurs.
Randa Filfili is a young businesswoman from Senegal, who became the first Senegalese producer to appreciate the value of fruit from cashew trees that others had considered waste, turning it into jam, a “niche” export product.
Through agribusiness, Randa not only managed to make her way as a successful businesswoman, but also helped local farmers reach global markets and create jobs for other young people., especially women.
So the next time you see the all-natural cashew butter produced by Randa in your store, Think about how you too can start a farming business to help yourself and poor people living in rural areas..
3. Isn't farming “fun?”? think again.
In Uganda, A team of young people working with the World Bank and UNICEF used a web-based mobile application called “U-Report” to quickly help 190.000 farmers to save the bananas, a staple food of Ugandans, from a terrible disease.
Countries like Kenya and Rwanda want to increase productivity through the use of information and communications technologies (TIC) and other creative solutions.
Agriculture in the developing world has become a dynamic field in which effective innovations are developed, thanks to an increasing number of young people interested in technology who allow this to happen.
4. Agricultural research needs the intellectual capacity of young people.
If you are a “fanatic” of development research, agriculture may be the right area for you. Many stories from Africa, from Latin America and elsewhere have shown that research can revolutionize the agricultural sector and transform livelihoods.
Today, more than before, Climate change and increasing demand for nutritious food make it more necessary to have new ideas and knowledge to explore ICT in agriculture, Promote climate-smart agricultural practices and innovate in the sector to drive future growth.
5. The trend of young people choosing agriculture is increasing.
Attitudes towards agriculture are already changing. In Cameroon, where agriculture is becoming more competitive, educated young people “have decided to become farmers, acquire land, grow corn professionally to sell it and manage their businesses to earn a living”, according to Felix Nkapemin, agricultural expert working with local farmers.
Other countries like Armenia, Brazil, Malawi and Senegal are investing in youth and agriculture with help from the World Bank Group and other development agencies. Young people are also increasingly explaining why they choose agriculture.
The trend is increasing. Support for the agricultural sector is growing. The list of reasons is endless.. On this International Youth Day, I invite you to share your opinions and experiences on why you think young people should be involved in the agriculture sector and how this can help reduce poverty and promote shared prosperity.
