UAE Unveils Programme To Improve Skills Of Agricultural Extension Agents

UAE's Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) has announced a programme that aims to improve the skills of agricultural extension agents or guiding staff and develop their professional capacities. The ministry's move is part of its efforts to boost agricultural production and increase its contribution to strengthening national food security in the UAE.

According to the Emirates News Agency report, the significant programme also focuses on improving the communication skills of agricultural extension agents to enable them to transfer technology and share modern farming techniques. The initiative comprises of specialised training courses on various topics, including soil and irrigation, crop and vegetable production, pest prevention and control, and fruit production. Lectures and workshops to strengthen the technical skills and competencies of agricultural extension agents are also part of the programme.

"Through this, we seek to build capacity and competency of agricultural extension, which in turn, would contribute to enhancing local agricultural production and support the transformation of national food systems into more sustainable systems," said Dr. Mohammed Salman Al Hammadi, Assistant Under-Secretary of the Food Diversity Sector at MOCCAE, as quoted by WAM. Additionally, the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment also plans to develop an annual plan for agricultural guidance. The purpose of the annual plan is to monitor and support farmers in improving crop production and protecting the crops from pests.