CDTY Bishop’s Office Initiates Agricultural Training Scholarships to Curb Lack of Agricultural Skilled Laborers in the Diocese

Feb 27, 2024 - 08:46 Updated: Feb 27, 2024 - 11:47

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CDTY Bishop’s Office Initiates Agricultural Training Scholarships to Curb Lack of Agricultural Skilled Laborers in the Diocese

Sr. Henriette Anne, FSSA

In the spirit of sustainable agriculture and rural development, the Catholic Diocese of Tambura-Yambio (CDTY), under the visionary leadership of Bishop Barani Eduardo Hiiboro Kussala, has embarked on a transformative journey of training personnel in the field of Agriculture.

In his letter shared with the Rurugene Online Newsletter, Bishop Eduardo has identified a practical solution - the intensive training of individuals from each parish. To realize this vision, he is calling upon its parishes to nominate two committed and qualified candidates for training at the SARD Institute through Scholarships from the office of the bishop.

The latest endeavor from the Diocese comes in the form of Letter No: 00135/CDTY/023 dated June 24, 2023, addressing a critical need for skilled agricultural personnel in the Tombura-Yambio Diocese. The letter highlights a plea for parish institutions to contribute one planted acre each in 2023, setting the stage for a grand project aimed at rural transformation.

Bishop Eduardo with the Minister of Agriculture at the SARD Institute

The conditions outlined in the letter outline a commitment from the selected candidates to abide by the school's code of conduct. Moreover, the candidates will enjoy the privilege of free tuition, with the course category determined by their preference. However, they must take responsibility for accommodation, feeding, health, and other school requirements. The application process includes a compulsory SSP 1000 fee, emphasizing the seriousness of the commitment.

Students of SARD Institute with their tutors during field work

To facilitate the selection process, candidates are required to provide two recent passport-sized photos and a recommendation letter from their parish priest. The deadline for submission of selected candidates is set for February 29, 2024, requiring prompt action from the parishes.

Established in 2018, the Sustainable Agriculture for Rural Development (SARD) Institute, situated in Mupoi with a branch at St. Augustine Parish, has become a beacon of hope for the Western Equatorial Region, South Sudan, and beyond.

Gift, a student of SARD Institute monitoring her project

The SARD Institute offers courses categorized into three groups, each catering to different time frames and skill levels:

Category A: One to six weeks Category B1: Six months Category B2: 16 months

The candidates have the opportunity to choose their preferred category during the application process, ensuring alignment with their goals and interests.

SARD Institute tutors inspecting student's project

This initiative is not just about training individuals; it's about fostering a sustainable and empowered community. By equipping selected candidates with agricultural skills, the Diocese aims to combat donor fatigue and promote self-reliance within the community.

The collaboration between the parishes and the SARD Institute symbolizes a powerful commitment to the advancement of agriculture, community development, and self-sustainability.