Ministry of Agriculture has called on agricultural graduates to transition from being job seekers to becoming entrepreneurs and drivers of investment in the sector.
Speaking during the 54th Certificate Graduation Ceremony at the Natural Resources Development College (NRDC) today, Ministry of Agriculture Permanent Secretary for Administration(Acting), Dr. Shepande Chizumba, emphasized that the modern agricultural landscape has shifted beyond subsistence farming.
Addressing the graduates under the theme “Embracing Trade in Agricultural Training that Fosters Investment,”
Dr. Chizumba noted that the sector is now a cornerstone of Zambia’s economic transformation.
“Agriculture today is no longer simply about producing food for household consumption,” Dr. Chizumba stated. “It is a business, an investment opportunity, a source of employment, and a critical component of Zambia’s industrialization.”
The Permanent Secretary highlighted that the government views agricultural training institutions as strategic partners in national development. He challenged the graduates to utilize their acquired skills to identify market gaps, attract investment, and add value to raw agricultural products.
“Our training institutions must prepare graduates not only to seek employment but to create it,” he said. “You are now equipped to develop enterprises that will contribute to the nation’s food security and rural development.”
Dr. Chizumba reaffirmed the government’s commitment to prioritizing agriculture as a key pillar for economic growth, citing its potential for wealth creation, poverty reduction, and export growth.
