Greenhouse initiative: Jamaica Bauxite Institute collaborates with Papine High School to enhance the agriculture programme

In an important step towards modernising agricultural education, the Jamaica Bauxite Institute (JBI) and Papine High School have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), allowing the school to use a greenhouse for the school's agriculture program.

The signing ceremony took place recently at the JBI headquarters in St. Andrew, where the greenhouse is located.

This collaborative effort is designed to empower students with cutting-edge greenhouse growing techniques, aligning their skills with the dynamic needs of the modern agricultural sector. The JBI, in its commitment, will provide technical guidance, seedlings, and other essential resources to support the program. The maintenance and upkeep of the greenhouse will be a shared responsibility between the two entities, ensuring a hands-on learning experience for the students.

The MOU is set to be effective for three years, with the possibility of renewal, marking a promising venture for the future of agricultural education at Papine High School.

In his remarks, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Mining Floyd Green praised the partnership, highlighting its alignment with the ministry’s efforts to revitalise the school garden program and introduce students to the latest agricultural techniques.

The Minister said, "It doesn't make sense that we talk about pick and hoe when agriculture is past that and is now at drones, greenhouse technology, hydroponics, and aeroponics. We must see how we can enhance our partnerships with our schools to ensure they have the technology they need for this innovative form of agriculture."

Yolanda Drakapoulos, the visionary General Manager of JBI, has championed this initiative, which embodies a shared vision for the future of education and agriculture in Jamaica.

“This MOU not only marks a new chapter of collaboration, growth, and opportunity for both our institutions but is a testament to the bauxite and alumina industry’s commitment to Brand Jamaica and its people. The JBI is ready to replicate this project in other locations within the urban space once given the resources,” she said.