ROSELINE MUTARE
MASVINGO-Agricultural & Rural Development Advisory Services (ARDAS) chief director, Medlinah Magwenzi is spearheading an initiative to significantly expand Farmer Field Schools (FFS) throughout the country, targeting the establishment of at least one school in every ward.
These FFS, which are typically overseen by local village heads, offer experiential learning opportunities for farmers, covering a comprehensive range of agricultural practices from land preparation through to market access. Conceptualized as “open classrooms,” they facilitate community engagement in agricultural education.
“Farmer Field Schools represent a transformative approach within our agricultural framework. Increasing their prevalence will not only enhance food security but also improve productivity and empower communities to actively participate in their own development,” stated Magwenzi.
The implementation of FFS has proven effective, with participants reporting notable improvements in crop yields and household income.
ARDAS aims to institutionalize these schools as essential components of local agricultural systems, thereby providing widespread access to contemporary agricultural knowledge and skills.
The anticipated expansion of Farmer Field Schools is poised to yield significant benefits for the agricultural sector, enhancing rural livelihoods and aligning with national food security objectives.
