The Caribbean Development Bank is planting a seed to shape the future of agriculture in Belize:

For over 185 students in Belize’s Corozal District, an opportunity to test their green thumbs is creating a great deal of excitement. A new state-of-the-art greenhouse constructed at the Escuela Secundaria Técnica México (ESTM) High School will be used to help students pursue increasing opportunities in the agri-business sector. It is part of a USD512,000 enhancement project funded by the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB).

“There was a time when agriculture was viewed globally as uneducated non-professional industry, but not anymore. Rich is the country that can feed itself, and the modernisation of the industry, with technology, climate-smart initiatives and sustainable practices make agriculture exciting,” said Velma Godoy, District Education Manager.

“The industry employs over one-third of Belize’s labour force and contributes significantly to our food security, so it’s integral to our economy. This greenhouse is therefore greatly appreciated,” she said. ”With it, we intend to equip our students with the skills needed to pursue entrepreneurial and other exciting opportunities developing within the agricultural sector.”

Read more at the Bank’s website.

[Image via: Caribbean Development Bank]