Four participants from Antigua and Barbuda are currently in China undergoing specialised training in modern water-saving agriculture and irrigation technologies, as the country looks to strengthen sustainable farming and improve the management of its limited water resources.

The programme provides a mix of technical lectures, practical training and field visits, giving the participants an opportunity to see how modern agricultural technologies are being used across different parts of China.

Among the areas being covered are water-saving irrigation systems, farmland soil monitoring, sprinkler irrigation, water measurement technologies and the use of smart technology in agriculture.

The participants are also learning about different models of water-saving irrigation and how these systems can improve efficiency and agricultural productivity.

As part of the programme, the Antigua and Barbuda delegation will visit agricultural research centres, experimental facilities and demonstration sites, where they will be able to observe some of the technologies in use.

Training and practical activities are being conducted in Beijing, Shijiazhuang, Baoding and Tianjin, exposing the participants to different approaches to irrigation, soil monitoring, agricultural water management and smart farming.

The programme also includes sessions examining China’s economic development experience, along with cultural activities aimed at giving participants a broader understanding of the country and its heritage.

Before completing the training, participants will work on an action plan aimed at applying some of the knowledge and experience gained during the programme.

The training is particularly relevant for Antigua and Barbuda, where water scarcity remains one of the challenges facing the agricultural sector.

Exposure to modern irrigation, water conservation and smart agricultural technologies could provide valuable knowledge as the country continues efforts to increase local food production while making more efficient use of available water resources.