Let’s make agriculture attractive to the youth

Irene left university last year with a ‘coveted’ and ‘marketable’ degree in international relations, hope and enthusiasm in her heart and a firm conviction in her mind that she was destined for a high-flying career in international diplomacy and politics. Her exuberance, however, was soon tempered by the realisation that, after four years of university, there are no jobs out there, and even with the available vacancies, one needs to have three or more years of experience. After a couple of months ‘tarmacking’, she settled on what most would consider an unusual path.

“I am a farmer now,” she proclaims, proudly presenting a seven-page Excel worksheet illustrating a plan of action that would flummox all but the most seasoned – or daring – of takers.  “People need strawberries; I know how to grow them. I have seen family and friends farm, so for me, it was an easy decision. Plus, it’s better than staying in the house, waiting for the parents to provide!”