Belmopan, April 25, 2024.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security, and Enterprise and the National Agriculture and Trade Show Committee are proud to announce the winners of the inaugural School Garden Competition. This initiative aims to promote agricultural education and sustainable farming practices among schools in Belize.
Twelve schools from across Belize, Cayo, Orange Walk, and Corozal districts participated in the competition. In the Primary School category, San Victor R.C. School from the Corozal District took the first prize, demonstrating excellence in garden layout, maintenance, and produce quality. The second place went to San Antonio United Pentecostal in the Cayo District for their commendable efforts. For the High School category, Valley of Peace S.D.A. Academy in the Cayo District secured the first position, while Belize High School of Agriculture from Trinidad Village, Orange Walk, claimed the second spot. Both schools exhibited innovative practices in agriculture and garden management.
The Innovation, Technology, and Regenerative Agriculture awards were given to Escuela Secundaria Técnica México and Itz’at Steam Academy from the Belize District in recognition of their pioneering approaches towards sustainable farming techniques.
The evaluation process was rigorous, with judges thoroughly assessing garden design, maintenance practices, agriculture techniques, and produce quality. Each school’s creativity, efficiency, variety of plants, cultivation techniques, and pest management were key factors in determining the winners.
The Ministry of Agriculture extends heartfelt gratitude to all participating schools for their dedication and enthusiasm in promoting greener and more sustainable practices through school gardens. Special appreciation is extended to the esteemed judges for their invaluable contributions and time devoted to this competition.
The School Garden Competition serves as a pivotal platform for schools to underscore the significance of agricultural education and sustainability. It emphasizes the crucial role of hands-on learning and community engagement in fostering environmentally conscious citizens and nurturing future generations.
Ends
For more information, please contact:
Mr. Emilio Montero, Coordinator
National Food and Nutrition Security Commission
Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security & Enterprise
637-6832
