During Business Month activities, the Consumer Affairs Department initiated a pivotal programme that unites education, agriculture, entrepreneurship, and responsible consumption.
The Food Security Competition Awards Ceremony, held under the theme “Grow What You Eat, Eat What You Grow,” highlighted the critical role of consumer awareness, youth engagement, and inter-agency collaboration in advancing national food security.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Equity, Labour, Gender, Elderly Affairs, Social Justice and Consumer Affairs, Dr. Charmaine Hippolyte Emmanuel, commended the schools and students for their impactful contributions to a programme that seamlessly links consumer education with sustainable agriculture.
Dr. Hippolyte Emmanuel stressed that food security is a national priority, affirming the government’s unwavering commitment to bolstering local production and reducing food import reliance. She declared the competition a “practical example of how public-sector collaboration can translate policy into meaningful outcomes at both school and community levels.”
Additionally, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Climate Change, Bradley St. Ange, expressed strong optimism about the future of agriculture, citing the enthusiasm and passion demonstrated by students.
“The future for agriculture is bright,” St. Ange asserted, “especially considering the excitement from students regarding a field that has traditionally struggled to attract young talent.”
Deputy Director of the Consumer Affairs Department, Norma Fontaine, reaffirmed the Department’s commitment, labeling this initiative as a significant investment in long-term food security. She emphasized that collaboration with schools marks a critical step in ensuring the nation’s food security for years to come—cultivating informed food choices and responsible production habits from an early age.
During the engaging ceremony, Ciceron Combined School clinched first place, with Millet Primary School in second place and Anse La Raye Combined School in third. The students were rightfully recognized for their creativity, teamwork, and understanding of sustainable food practices.
This programme also received essential logistical support from the Government and People of the Republic of China (Taiwan), whose technical assistance significantly enhanced the hands-on learning experience.