The next generation of Jamaican farmers and agricultural entrepreneurs were front and centre at the Brown’s Town Primary School in St. Ann on Thursday (March 19), as the St. Ann 4-H Clubs hosted its Parish Selection Day 2026.
The event, which was a scaled down version of the parish’s Annual 4-H Achievement Day, brought together 27 schools and community groups in a wide-ranging display of youth talent and innovation in agriculture.
Students from institutions such as Brown’s Town Primary, Brown’s Town High School, York Castle High, Claremont Primary and Infant and several others participated in crop and livestock competitions, as well as in leadership, development and climate-focused activities.
In his address, Executive Director of the Jamaica 4-H Clubs, Peter Thompson, said the students are central to both the day’s success, as well as the long-term sustainability of the agricultural sector.
“4-H stands resolute in terms of support to schools, in terms of support to community clubs in achieving their goals and objectives where agriculture and agricultural entrepreneurship are concerned,” Mr. Thompson stated.
He also acknowledged long-standing partners who continue to support the entity and its activities throughout the years, noting that the support has helped the organisation to grow and transform in terms of membership and infrastructure.
At the parish level, Manager Tedroy Gordon, explained that St. Ann stood out as the only parish to maintain its Achievement Day activities, following disruptions caused by Hurricane Melissa.
He credited teachers for ensuring that the event continued, noting their collective decision to prioritise youth engagement even amid challenges.
“The Jamaica 4-H Clubs continues to be that youth arm of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining to ensure that youth involvement and youth in agriculture continue to be one of the forefronts of the Ministry,” Mr. Gordon stated.
“It is also important for us to host events like these so that we can continue with the spirit of 4-H and the involvement of young people in agriculture because the future of agriculture lies with the youth in agriculture,” he added.
Agencies, including the Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA) and the Child Protection and Family Services Agency (CPFSA), were on the ground interacting with students, while other stakeholders showcased services relevant to young farmers and their communities.
Among those making a return to the competition floor was the team from Irons Mountain Primary and Infant School, led by teacher and 4-H leader, Pauline Nolan. Ms. Nolan told JIS News that the school, which placed second in an event in 2024, came back to take home more prizes.
“We have completed the seed identification activity and now they are composting. So, with them participating, they will be a part of the rebuilding process,” Ms. Nolan underscored.
She added that their involvement was part of a broader effort to rebuild after the recent hurricane disruptions that affected schools, communities and the wider country.
