The future of Jamaican agriculture took centre stage in Manchester as the Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA) executed two landmark handovers that speak directly to food security, youth engagement, innovation, and sustainable livestock development. 

The occasion marked the presentation of Vertical Hydroponic Towers to Manchester High School and Holmwood Technical High School.

Franklyn Witter, State Minister in the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining, during his presentation, underscored the importance of combining education, technology, and production.

“Vertical farming towers show what the future of Jamaican agriculture looks like: high-yield, climate-

smart, and resilient. They allow us to produce more food using less land and less water, without compromising sustainability,” Witter said. 

“These towers show that farming in Jamaica doesn’t have to be constrained by space or climate. With climate-smart technology, we can conserve water, increase productivity, and build a more secure food future,” he said.

He highlighted that the initiative aligns with the Government’s New FACE of Food Strategy, focusing on Food Security, Agribusiness Development, Climate-Smart Technologies, and Export Expansion.

Support includes improved genetics, high-quality bucks, artificial insemination, embryo transfer programmes, parasite control, improved feeding systems, silage and hay production, equipment support, and climate-resilience tools such as heat index monitors, thermal cameras, and elevated housing designs.

These efforts are strengthened through key Government initiatives, including the $50 million Small Ruminant Development Programme and the establishment of Small Ruminant Agro-Parks.

Witter indicated that the day’s handovers went beyond equipment.

“They are about empowerment, resilience, and national development. By investing in our schools, we are shaping future farmers. We are supporting small ruminant producers, and we are reducing imports, creating jobs, and strengthening rural communities. As we work together, we are moving Jamaica closer to food security and agricultural self-sufficiency,” he said.

Addressing stakeholders, Garnet Edmondson, Chief Executive Officer at RADA, described the initiatives as strategic investments in Jamaica’s agricultural future.

By introducing Vertical Hydroponics Towers (VHTs) into schools, RADA he said is nurturing a new generation of agriculturists who understand that farming can be smart, efficient, and climate-resilient. 

“The towers will allow students to grow fresh, nutritious produce year-round, support school nutrition programmes, serve as hands-on teaching tools for science, technology, and agriculture, and inspire young people to view agriculture as a viable and exciting career path,” Edmondson said. 

Under the wider initiative, 125 Vertical Hydroponics Towers, along with inputs, are being rolled out nationally. These systems enable the cultivation of leafy greens, herbs, and vegetables using minimal water and nutrient inputs.

“This is how we build the future, by planting knowledge alongside crops,” Edmondson said. 

Hilary Morgan, Vice-Principal speaking on behalf of Jasford Gabriel, Principal at Manchester High School, expressed gratitude for the initiative, noting that the school is especially pleased to be a recipient of the Vertical Hydroponic Towers, as many of its students actively pursue Agricultural Science.

 “The initiative will greatly enhance teaching and learning, allowing students to apply theory to practice while developing skills that are critical to the future of the agricultural sector,” Morgan said. 

Orchid Harris, speaking on behalf of Member of Parliament for Manchester Central, Rhoda Moy Crawford, welcomed the initiative, noting its importance in promoting hands-on, modern agricultural techniques that effectively integrate traditional farming knowledge with innovative technologies.

“By blending time-tested practices with modern methods, the initiative encourages greater youth participation and supports the long-term sustainability of the sector,” Harris said. 

The event also featured a technical demonstration of the Vertical Hydroponic Tower by Jermaine Allen, Agricultural Extension Officer from Manchester, bringing theory into practice for students and attendees alike.