Department of Agriculture Launches Farmer Field School Programme

The Department of Agriculture formally launched the Farmer Field School (FFS)—a new five-month, hands-on agricultural training programme—on Saturday, 22 November 2025, at the Kew Town Farmers Market.

Hon. Zhavargo Jolly (third from left seated), Minister of Tourism with responsibility for Agriculture share lens with members of the Agriculture Department, some local farmers, Members of the Cadet Corp and Students of the Raymond Gardiner High School. At second left (seated) is Wilhelmina Kissoonsingh, while fourth from left is Nimrol Beckles, Head of the TCI Cadet Corps.

The Farmer Field School, designed to equip participants with the fundamentals of sustainable crop farming, offers comprehensive training in basic agronomy, crop care, soil health, pest management, farm record keeping, and post-harvest practices. The programme begins on 12 January 2026, with all essential materials provided by the Department of Agriculture.

Upon completion, graduates will gain access to farming plots at the Kew Farm Agro Park in North Caicos, giving them an immediate opportunity to begin producing “Home Grown – TCI Owned” agricultural products.

Hon. Zharvargo Jolly, Minister of Tourism with responsibility for the Agriculture Department

Saturday’s launch drew high school students, youth cadets, and members of the wider public—all demonstrating strong interest in the future of agriculture in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

The launch marked a major milestone in the national “Home Grown – TCI Owned” campaign, which promotes the expansion of locally grown produce on farms owned and operated by Turks and Caicos Islanders, strengthening food security and economic independence.

In his feature address, Hon. Zhavargo Jolly, Minister of Tourism with responsibility for agriculture, reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to revitalising the sector. He described the Farmer Field School as a practical pathway for developing skilled farmers and reducing reliance on imports, empowering residents with the tools to establish and sustain their own farms.

Wilhelmina Kissoonsingh, Director of Agriculture

Residents interested in joining the programme are encouraged to register early.