George Wehner, the United Progressive Party (UPP) candidate in the upcoming by-election, has expressed his ambition to establish an agricultural studies campus in Pares.
He envisions the community as a future center for agricultural education and advancement.
Wehner spoke about his desire to collaborate with the University of the West Indies (UWI) to provide students with easier access to agricultural degree programs. He made that disclosure during a rally in Pares Village a few days ago.
Wehner also advocated for establishing a new Pares campus dedicated to agricultural education, honoring Sir Robert Hall.
He highlighted the potential use of existing local resources like CARDI and Diamond’s Estate, emphasizing the campus’s economic benefits, including opportunities for faculty and students, and boosting local businesses.
Wehner also committed to sustainable development, proposing solar panels at Potworks Dam for water security and green energy.
He criticized previous administrations for a decline in agricultural self-sufficiency, recalling a time when the community thrived in poultry and pork production.
Meanwhile, the current administration is working on converting the former Bethesda Primary School site into an agricultural campus as part of the ABICE program.
Great idea! Ottos Comprehensive was the first school to introduce Agriculture Science to its curriculum in 1974! People laughed and made fun of it! Today, some of the biggest producers are alumni of the school! It is VERY important that a Country knows how to feed itself. Food independence is the objective of every developed nation!👍💯