ACTAF supports the main programs of the agricultural system

Multiplying the actions of vocational and professional training of the young generations is a primary mission for the recently elected provincial executive of the Cuban Association of Agricultural and Forestry Technicians (ACTAF).

Yoandry Ávila IgarzaLas Tunas, Cuba.- In the opinion of Yoandry Ávila Igarza, who was ratified as the president in the Assembly of Representatives of the Sixth Congress, this is a significant undertaking to continue supporting the main programs of the agricultural system.

“Historically, we have implemented actions aimed at the forestry sector, which is the activity of the agricultural system that has been most depressed because, in Las Tunas, this specialty is not studied, neither in the Agricultural Polytechnic Institutes (IPA) nor in the university.

“But we continue to strengthen our work with students of primary and secondary schools and, after the appearance of the COVID-19 disease, the attention to young people studying Agronomy was prioritized, encouraging them with different topics.

“With the IPA and pre-university students, we have held fairs and talks to demonstrate how important agriculture is in these times. For example, we talk about efficient microorganisms, which may seem strange; but it is the solution to the lack of products for plant nutrition or pest control. We want them to fall in love with agricultural careers.”

By the way, Ileana Martínez Guerra, a member of the executive of the ACTAF, considers that the organization should promote the presence of an agronomist, a veterinary doctor, and an economist in each of the production units of the province.

She added that these professionals could advise producers to carry out the processes at the appropriate stage and with greater effectiveness, resulting in more food production for the population.

The topic was analyzed at the meeting that evaluated the ACTAF work during the years between 2017 and 2022, in which the strategy for the next five years was also addressed, while they must participate in the implementation of the Law of Food Sovereignty and Food and Nutritional Security during this period.
According to Ávila Igarza, the accompaniment to the productive bases will also be perfected, bringing them bulletins, technical manuals, and other bibliographies, besides training actions required by the people who receive land in usufruct.

Yoel Martínez Vargas, delegate of the Ministry of Agriculture, explained the main tasks that the sector undertakes today and expressed his confidence in the professionals who integrate the organization and are a valuable support in agricultural and forestry development.

Grassroots bodies, outstanding members, and institutional and personal partners deserved recognition. Niurka María González Cutiño, who was granted the ACTAF Award for the Work of Life; Ana Ramona García Núñez, Award for the Creativity of Rural Women; and the Provincial Plant Health Laboratory stood out.