UAE Launches New Program to Boost Farming Skills and Food Security
The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) in the UAE has launched a new program to enhance agricultural advisory services. This initiative aims to improve the skills of agricultural extension agents, focusing on areas such as soil, irrigation, crop production, pest control, and beekeeping.
The program includes specialized training courses, workshops, and field courses to help agents apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings. These efforts aim to increase agricultural production and contribute to national food security.
Dr. Mohammed Salman Al Hammadi, Assistant Under-Secretary of the Food Diversity Sector at MOCCAE, stated, “The agricultural extension efficiency improvement program is part of our ongoing commitment to support the sustainability of national farms in the UAE. We aim to build the capacity and competency of agricultural extension agents, which will enhance local agricultural production and support the transformation of national food systems into more sustainable systems.”
The program will be implemented in collaboration with partners, research centers, and global experts. It includes an annual plan for agricultural guidance to monitor and support farmers, focusing on crops like date palms, fruits, vegetables, and honey production. The plan also involves preparing technical reports and recommendations to improve performance and meet farmers’ needs.
Dr. Al Hammadi added that the Ministry aims to enhance communication between extension agents and farmers through regular meetings and scheduled farm visits. This will help address challenges, improve crop yields, and set standards to enhance the quality and efficiency of agricultural guidance programs.
Doubts Revealed
UAE -: UAE stands for the United Arab Emirates, a country in the Middle East known for its modern cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Ministry of Climate Change and Environment -: This is a government department in the UAE that focuses on protecting the environment and addressing climate change issues.
agricultural advisory services -: These are services that provide farmers with expert advice and information to help them grow crops more effectively.
agricultural extension agents -: These are experts who work with farmers to teach them new farming techniques and practices.
soil -: Soil is the top layer of the earth where plants grow. It is made up of minerals, organic matter, and living organisms.
irrigation -: Irrigation is the process of supplying water to crops to help them grow, especially in areas where there is not enough rainfall.
crop production -: This refers to the process of growing plants that will be harvested for food, fiber, or other uses.
pest control -: Pest control involves managing or eliminating insects and other animals that can harm crops.
beekeeping -: Beekeeping is the practice of maintaining bee colonies, usually in hives, to produce honey and help with pollination.
training courses -: These are classes where people learn new skills or improve existing ones.
workshops -: Workshops are interactive sessions where people can learn and practice new skills.
field courses -: Field courses are practical training sessions that take place outside, often on farms, where people can apply what they have learned in real-life situations.
Dr. Mohammed Salman Al Hammadi -: He is a person who is likely an expert or official involved in the new farming program in the UAE.
sustainable farming -: Sustainable farming means growing food in ways that are good for the environment and can be continued for a long time without causing harm.
national food security -: This means making sure that a country has enough food for all its people, now and in the future.
