Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries Introduces Ground-breaking National Agricultural Training Initiative (NATI)

February 12, 2-26:-  Under the visionary leadership of the Honorable Kamla Persad Bissessar, the Prime Minister of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, Senator the Honourable Ravi Ratiram, is pleased to announce the introduction of the National Agricultural Training Initiative (NATI) which commenced on Thursday February 12, 2026. This initiative is aligned to the Government’s mandate of revitalizing the agricultural sector in a bid to boost food production while contributing to the reduction of the food import bill. Such a pioneering programme is designed to empower small and medium-scale farmers, youth, women, and agricultural cooperatives with modern, sustainable, and climate-resilient farming techniques.

 

NATI is a comprehensive training initiative that offers practical, climate-smart, and market-relevant courses in crop production, livestock, agro-processing, and agri-technology. The programme aims to enhance productivity, add value, and strengthen food security by providing hands-on training and skills that are applicable in the field and in the market. With a strong focus on community development, NATI brings information and experience closer to citizens, making it easily accessible nationwide.

 

This initiative has already garnered significant national interest, with over one thousand individuals from diverse demographics participating in the first tranche of courses. The overwhelming response is a testament to the need for innovative and effective agricultural training programmes that cater to the needs of modern farmers and the broader agricultural community.

 

“We are thrilled to introduce NATI, which represents a significant milestone in our efforts to revolutionize the agricultural sector,” said Senator the Honourable Ravi Ratiram, Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries. “By providing our citizens with the knowledge, skills, and tools they need to succeed, we are confident that NATI will play a vital role in driving economic growth, improving food security, and promoting sustainable agriculture practices.”

 

NATI’s community-focused approach ensures that training is delivered in a way that is professional, relevant, accessible, and effective. The programme’s courses are designed to address the specific needs of persons whilst providing them with the expertise and resources required to thrive in an increasingly complex and competitive agricultural landscape.

 

The Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries invites all interested individuals to learn more about NATI and to apply for the upcoming courses through the Ministry’s social media platforms. By working together, we can build a stronger, more resilient agricultural sector that benefits everyone.