TWELVE students and three teachers from a collection of Jamaican high schools were blown away by their recent immersion in agriculture, as part of the Tuskegee University Agri-Trek Summer Programme in Alabama, United States.

The schools included Cornwall College, Maldon High, Knockalva High, Herbert Morrison Technical High, Montego Bay High and Cambridge High, all from St James.

They spent two weeks receiving hands-on learning across agriculture and education, during which they were given a chance to experience the rich history and culture of Tuskegee University and the surrounding Tuskegee area.
The students were effusive in their reflections on the experience which, they all concluded, had positioned them for greater things that would provide them with valuable educational, cultural, and personal development opportunities, bound to redound to the benefit of Jamaica.

In their joint report on the trip, Cornwall’s Jeremiah Bent, Samijani Gardener and D’Andre Granston, and Maldon High’s Deontae Forrester, and Dave Brown described the Tuskegee University Agri-Trek Summer Programme as “an unforgettable experience”, meeting with the 140 participants, Jamaica being the only other country outside the United States.

Through mentors in different fields the students participated in research activities, laboratory exercises, discussions, and poster presentations that helped develop teamwork, communication, and critical thinking skills.
“We learned how technology can be used to collect, analyse, and display geographical information. Others explored biotechnology and learned how scientists can extract DNA from one plant and transfer it to another.
“Students involved in veterinary science learned practical skills such as measuring goat weight, determining body condition scores, and conducting FAMACHA scoring to assess animal health,” read the joint report.
FAMACHA is a method used to assess anaemia risk in livestock by examining the colour of an animal’s eyelid against a five-point scale.

Participants in the Tuskegee University Agri-Trek Summer Programme getting ready to enjoy rafting on the Whitewater

Maldon science teacher Glenveil Wynn (right), who chaperoned students including Deontae Forrester and Dave Brown.

One of the most rewarding aspects of the programme was interacting with students from the various states across the USA, they noted, adding that they proudly shared aspects of Jamaican culture and taught the Americans some Jamaican expressions.

They visited a canine detector facility where they learned how specially trained dogs assist in protecting agriculture by detecting prohibited agricultural products.

The report continued: “We also toured the Atlanta International Airport Plant Inspection Station where we learned about inspections, invasive pests, plant diseases, and regulations that protect the agricultural sector from harmful organisms entering the country.

“One of Jamaica’s main sources of income is within the agricultural field. The inspections and regulations that we have learned can help to better protect our agricultural integrity from invasive pests and diseases from foreign countries.

“Another memorable experience was the trolley tour of Tuskegee University’s historic 5,000-acre campus. We visited museums and learned about the rich history of the university; its founders; and its contribution to agriculture, education, and scientific advancement.”

Maldon High’s science teacher Glenviel Wynn said walking the Tuskegee campus was inspiring as the university’s legacy as a centre for African American education, innovation, and leadership under Booker T Washington is still very present.

“The Tuskegee area itself reflected that same spirit — a strong sense of community, agricultural heritage, and commitment to service. That history reminded me that agriculture and education are not just about production, but about empowering people.

“One of the most impactful parts of the visit was observing Tuskegee’s approach to pedagogy. Lessons were not confined to lectures. Instructors used experiential learning — students learned by doing, troubleshooting, and reflecting.

“This showed me that effective agricultural education must connect theory to practice. I plan to apply this by structuring future lessons with more field-based activities, group problem-solving, and reflection sessions so learners can take ownership of the process.

“The exposure to vertical hydroponic farming showed me how space and water can be used more efficiently. Seeing crops growing in controlled environments without soil made climate-smart agriculture tangible.
“This is especially relevant given the increasing unpredictability of weather here in Jamaica… I now see vertical farming as a viable way to produce vegetables year round, reduce water use, and involve youth in agriculture,” said Wynn.

The experience took them to Auburn University’s aquaculture unit where their small-scale fish production and water-quality management helped students to understand the link between fish, water, and plant systems through integrated approaches.

Wynn said it gave him ideas for diversified, resource-efficient enterprises and improving the system at Maldon High School.

Even at a small scale, aquaculture can improve household nutrition, place less stress on natural aquatic systems, and provide additional income, he noted.

The students were thankful to the Maldon and Cornwall alumni, the Sweet Water Foundation, and the Tuskegee University “for the knowledge, mentorship, hospitality, and the chance to connect with such a powerful legacy”.