KINGSTON, Jamaica — The abrupt cancellation of National 4-H Achievement Day 2026 is not sitting well with Opposition Spokesman on Agriculture, Dr Dayton Campbell.

Campbell voiced his displeasure at the cancellation during his contribution to the Sectoral Debate in the House of Representatives on June 3.

“The Minister (Floyd Green) spoke about youth engagement, training opportunities, and preparing the next generation of agricultural leaders. These are objectives that we should all support. However, the cancellation of National 4-H Achievement Day 2026 has raised concerns among students, parents, teachers, club leaders, and many stakeholders within the agricultural sector,” Campbell noted.

He argued that National Achievement Day is more than an event. “It is one of the most important platforms through which young Jamaicans showcase their skills, innovation, discipline, and commitment to agriculture. It provides recognition for excellence, encourages healthy competition, and exposes young people to opportunities in farming, agribusiness, science, technology, and entrepreneurship”.

Campbell told the Parliament that for many young people, particularly those from rural communities, it is their first opportunity to participate on a national stage.

“It builds confidence, rewards hard work, and reinforces the message that agriculture is a profession worthy of pride and ambition. It also strengthens the vital connection between education, agriculture, and national development,” he said. The opposition spokesman said it was against that background that the cancellation of National Achievement Day is disappointing and warrants a full explanation.

“At a time when we are seeking to attract more young people into agriculture, we must ensure that opportunities for recognition, participation, and achievement are expanded rather than reduced,” he remarked.

He has called for Minister Green to provide Parliament and the country with a clear explanation of the factors that led to the cancellation. He also wants the Government to commit to restoring National Achievement Day in 2027 with adequate funding and support. “Consideration should be given to hosting an alternative national youth agriculture showcase before the end of this year, ensuring that students who have worked diligently still have an opportunity to display their achievements,” Campbell said.

He also called for the strengthening of the budgetary support provided to Jamaica 4-H Clubs which he said should be reported transparently so that Parliament can assess whether sufficient resources are being invested in youth agricultural development.

“If we are serious about the future of agriculture, then we must be equally serious about investing in the young people who will shape that future. They must see agriculture as a sector that offers opportunity, innovation, entrepreneurship, recognition, and a pathway to success,” Campbell insisted.

“Our commitment to youth in agriculture cannot be measured only by what we say. It must also be reflected in the opportunities we preserve and the investments we make in the next generation,” he added.