Mouhoun: Several primary schools in Tuy are experimenting with cultivating school fields as part of a presidential initiative aimed at enhancing quality education by encouraging agricultural practices within schools. In Tuy, 95 out of 317 primary schools have embarked on growing crops such as corn, sorghum, cowpeas, peanuts, soybeans, and sesame. The Karaba A, Karaba B, and Karaba-Cira primary schools in Hound serve as notable examples of this initiative, showcasing varied outcomes from their agricultural efforts.

According to Burkina Information Agency, at Karaba B, a half-hectare of corn sown in early July has reached ripeness, thanks to the collaborative efforts of parents, teachers, and students. Headmaster Bega Nanema emphasized the role of students in assisting with the cultivation process and highlighted the challenge posed by stray ruminants due to the absence of fencing. He believes the initiative will aid the school canteen and allow more time for learning. Plans are also in place to explore school gardening and above-ground gardening, with support from the community.

Karaba A has dedicated three-quarters of a hectare to corn and one-quarter to soybeans. While the corn is maturing, soybeans are forming pods. Interim director Souleymane Kindo pointed out the lack of support in terms of seeds, fertilizers, and herbicides, as well as the issue of stray animals. Despite these challenges, he acknowledged the teachers’ efforts in field preservation and highlighted the potential of the initiative to promote agriculture and inspire future generations. A lack of water remains a constraint, with students traveling 500 meters for water supplies.

In Karaba-Cira, a unique situation unfolded as a hectare of beans planted in August was significantly damaged by ruminants, leaving only a few plants. Principal Sylvie Som expressed regret over the loss but noted the school’s shift to growing beans in a fenced garden. Teacher Yaya Diallo praised the initiative and called for increased parental support.

Maxime Gnoumou, Head of the Basic Education District of Hound 1, reported that 12 schools in his district participated in cultivation, demonstrating agriculture’s value and its potential to inspire students. Ladji Ouattara, the provincial director of preschool, primary, and non-formal education of Tuy, highlighted the engagement of 95 schools in the province. He acknowledged the challenges such as limited arable land in urban areas, access to water, and lack of resources but remains optimistic. Ouattara plans to advocate for better access to land, inputs, and technical support to sustain the initiative and raise awareness about the benefits of school fields.