Why isn’t agriculture included in STEM?

Aug 24, 2017 Letters

Dear Editor,
I am indeed hopeful that our identification with the adaptation of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) as the basis for our educational path would ensure that we are as successful as possible in our planning and execution in the Education sector.
However, as a former political worker, I cannot help thinking that in our circumstances, the opportunity should be taken to include AGRICULTURE in this set of guiding “subjects”, given the reasons for identifying them as areas to be emphasised as the “engines of growth” for our theoretical, and even attitudinal development (STEAM).
As I understand it, our objective is to create an environment in which our future men and women will be functioning as persons who have been adequately prepared for the demands of “modern world” We have forever identified our agricultural resources as essential to our economic development as well as our contribution to the future of a Caribbean nation——the Bread Basket of the Caribbean!!
This seems to be a sufficient argument for the inclusion of Agriculture in this portfolio. Let us however add the argument that the adoption of Agriculture would help in the inculcating of Discipline in our society. The demands of proper husbandry will teach timetabling——planting, caring, reaping, marketing etc.
The inclusion of Agriculture will contribute towards giving our technological and scientific engagements a sense of direction. Our engineering skills could be honed towards the creation and adaptation of machinery for agricultural purposes, among others. This can lead to some specialisation in the not-too-distant future and even be the springboard for the exportation of equipment for agro-industry. At the University level, courses may be developed to instruct in agro-business thus cementing the base for this discipline. Another area which can benefit greatly from this emphasis is the security of our borders. I do not think that we need to spend too much time on this point, for obvious reasons associated with the settlement of citizens in suitable locations.
An equally important point is the inculcation of an appreciation of the value of LAND for our people. We can also see the re-appearance of the SCHOOL GARDEN and animal pens as they become essential instruments of instruction at all our schools. Our Science curricula at various levels would include aspects of food production, preservation and handling. I have not attempted to touch on the ideological aspects of this proposal but I am certain that they would be most interesting in light of our current situation.
I am arguing that given the ongoing debate concerning the beneficial use of the anticipated oil revenues and the level of productivity and skills available, it seems that Agriculture would be the area in which we could make a very profitable investment at this time. This proposal supports in every aspect the vision of a Green Economy and the realisation of Self-Sufficiency. Let us go Full-STEAM ahead, towards Economic Progress and a good life for all!
Malcolm Parris

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