Opening Remarks by the Principal, Mr. Okwaja John Bosco
In his opening remarks, the Principal, Mr. Okwaja John Bosco, expressed sincere appreciation to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the Young Farmers Champions Network (YOFCHAN) for identifying the National Farmers’ Leadership Centre as a partner in training youth in agriculture.
He highlighted the importance of the Samuel Undong (SMU) Model, a village development approach that emphasizes community transformation, self-help, and collective progress. He noted that development must be inclusive, explaining that when only one individual succeeds in a village, the community may not fully support that success. The SMU Model therefore encourages shared growth, teamwork, and doing things in new and innovative ways for the benefit of the entire community.
The Principal urged participants to eliminate the misconception that agriculture is meant for poor people or for those who have failed in life. He emphasized that agriculture is a viable and profitable enterprise open to everyone, regardless of their level of education. He encouraged the youth to work together as a team, support one another, and embrace agriculture as a dignified and transformative career path.
He concluded by expressing his desire for continued collaboration with YOFCHAN and FAO in empowering more young people through similar initiatives.
Remarks by the FAO Uganda Representative, Mr. Robert Fungo
The FAO Uganda representative, Mr. Bernard Kifungo, also thanked the National Farmers’ Leadership Centre for its outstanding work in youth empowerment and for creating opportunities for young people to participate in agricultural training.
He noted that FAO’s role is to identify and promote initiatives that work effectively in strengthening agriculture and food systems. He quoted a local proverb: “Emiti emito gye giggumiza ekibira,” meaning “Young trees are the foundation of the forest.” He explained that just as young trees sustain a forest, young people form the foundation and future of society and the nation at large.
He further stated that FAO focuses on strengthening young people in the field of agriculture by addressing food production in a strategic and sustainable way. The organization pays particular attention to food security, climate change, and the role of youth in building resilient agricultural systems. He encouraged the participants to take the knowledge gained seriously and apply it to create lasting impact within their communities.
Remarks by the YOFCHAN Representative, Mr. Khamutima Tumwebaze
The YOFCHAN representative, Mr. Khamutima Tumwebaze, thanked the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations for its continued support toward youth empowerment in agriculture. He also appreciated the National Farmers’ Leadership Centre for providing a conducive training environment and excellent facilities for the participants.
He emphasized that success comes to those who are organized and disciplined. He explained that the purpose of the training was not only to impart technical agricultural skills but also to transform mindsets. According to him, achievement begins with one’s thoughts — what a person consistently thinks about influences what they eventually become.
He encouraged participants from Nsingiro District to organize themselves into structured groups so that YOFCHAN can provide continued support and regular follow-up programs within their district. He further stressed that YOFCHAN aims to nurture them into agents of change, pioneers, and champions who can serve as role models and inspire other young people to engage productively in agriculture.
