Students at Cobbs Cross Primary School are now benefiting from a modern drip irrigation system that is transforming the school’s agricultural programme and promoting more sustainable farming practices on campus.

The new system was made possible through support and coordination by the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) along with its partners. The initiative is designed to improve water management, boost crop productivity, and enhance hands-on agricultural education for students.

All hands on deck installation of driplines

IICA National Specialist Craig Thomas explained that the project was introduced to tackle ongoing challenges in maintaining the school’s garden, particularly inconsistent rainfall and inefficient watering methods. By delivering water directly to the roots of plants, the drip irrigation system minimizes waste while promoting healthier plant growth.

Student connecting the endcap for the driplines.

Principal Mae Hypolite, the school’s Agricultural Science teacher, and students all took part in installing the system, turning the activity into a practical learning experience. The principal noted that beyond strengthening crop yields, the project reinforces lessons about environmental responsibility and conservation among students.

Technical expertise and equipment were provided by GroTech Farms, with Bradbury Browne offering guidance and training to ensure the system is properly maintained and sustainable over the long term.

Laying down the driplines

School officials say the new irrigation system could reduce water usage by as much as 70 percent compared to traditional watering methods. The project also lays the groundwork for additional eco-friendly initiatives, including rainwater harvesting and further expansion of the school’s garden.

The development marks another step forward in encouraging climate awareness and agricultural innovation among young learners at Cobbs Cross Primary.