SVG signs MOU with University of Guyana
A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed between St. Vincent and the Grenadines and
the University of Guyana at the conclusion of the OECS Fast Strategy Summit which was held in
this country on the August 31 and September 1, 2023 at the NIS Conference Room. The MOU
facilitates both countries through the development and implementation of programmes impacting
general areas of food and nutrition security of mutual interest, working together to secure financing
for programmes for further development of business opportunities and the provision of technical
expertise to the Ministry of Agriculture of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
The arrangement will see the provision of accredited training for categories of specialists involved
in farming, extension services, agro-processing, herbalists, and other health and personal care
professionals involved in the prescription of herbal preparations in the form of health supplements,
personal care products and bioactive beverages among other general areas of cooperation
Minister of Agriculture, Forestry, Fisheries, Rural Transformation, Industry and Labour, Hon.
Saboto Caesar thanked the Government and people of Guyana adding that there is an anticipation in
sending more students to Guyana. Minister Caesar said, “over the last five years we have sent
approximately ten young persons to study Agriculture from St. Vincent and the Grenadines in
Guyana.” Minister Caesar noted the importance of creating a diversified platform with a capacity
for the transfer of human resource.
The Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry, The University of Guyana, Dr. Lawrence
Lewis revealed that the university is leading in a number of areas including research; exploring
aquaponics and aquaculture, with an analysis on returns on investment on fish harvested and
vegetables grown; utilising local feed to grow fishes, livestock and ruminants. The Dean also
disclosed that the Faculty of Agriculture has embarked on biotechnological practices where
development of lines in Sweet potato, biodiversity. The courses offered include: BSc. and
Associate Degree of Science in Forestry (Animal Science and Agronomy), BSc. in Food Science,
BSc. in Agri Entrepreneurship and Management, MSc. in Agro-Technoloogy and Business and a
PhD in Biodiversity.
Plant Pathologist, Biotechnologist and Regional Agribusiness Advisor, Prof. Leonard O’Garro, is
also a signatory of this mutual agreement and is an advocate for collaborations indicative of
development within the Agriculture sector.
