Chuka, Kenya – July 11, 2025
Chuka University Pavilion Grounds buzzed with youthful energy and agricultural enthusiasm during the 2nd Edition of the Agriculture Symposium held on July 11, 2025. The event attracted 12 secondary schools and 34 secondary school teachers, offering students a unique opportunity to interact with agricultural experts and explore career possibilities in the agriculture sector.
Organized under the theme “Youth Engagement Through Nurturing for Innovation and Sustainable Agriculture,” the symposium was a vibrant platform for learning, mentorship, and innovation. Students were inspired and challenged to embrace agriculture not only as a school subject but also as a critical driver of Kenya’s food security and economic growth. Teachers were encouraged to make sure that whenever students selected Agriculture as a subject, they also chose Biology as a subject to accompany it, as this would expand their career prospects.
The symposium featured addresses by experienced lecturers and professors from Chuka University’s Faculty of Agriculture, representing four core departments:
- Food Science and Technology
- Animal Science
- Plant Science
- Agribusiness, Agricultural Education, and Agricultural Economics
These experts shared insights on modern agricultural practices, innovations, and emerging career paths in the sector. Their talks aimed to demystify agriculture and show students the dynamic opportunities that lie beyond the farm.
Among the day’s highlights were:
- Departmental exhibitions showcasing research, innovative technologies, and academic programs.
- Keynote speeches by invited guests who emphasized the role of youth in transforming agriculture.
- Mentorship sessions, where students engaged in one-on-one discussions with university faculty and agricultural professionals.
- Aptitude tests designed to assess students’ interests and strengths in agricultural fields.
- Project exhibitions by students, which demonstrated creativity and practical understanding of agriculture-related concepts and the desire to care for the environment.
The event concluded with an awards ceremony recognizing outstanding participants. The Best School in Exhibits and Best Student in Aptitude Tests received certificates to honor their excellence and encourage continued pursuit of agricultural knowledge.
Speaking at the event, one of the faculty members remarked, “This symposium is not just about showcasing agriculture. It’s about planting a seed of interest, nurturing talent, and preparing the next generation of innovators who will lead us toward sustainable agriculture in Kenya and beyond.”
The Agriculture Symposium continues to grow in relevance and impact, solidifying Chuka University’s commitment to youth empowerment and agricultural transformation. Plans are already underway for next year’s edition, promising even greater engagement and innovation.
