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By: Moses Geply/LAEJN Maryland County Coordinator
In Maryland County- Students from the College of Agriculture and Food Science at William V. S. Tubman University are beginning to translate classroom theory into hands-on agricultural practice, demonstrating the growing role of practical training in Liberia’s higher education system.
Early Thursday morning, groups of students were seen harvesting watermelons cultivated on the college’s agricultural fields. The crop, planted and managed entirely by the students as part of their coursework, marks a milestone in the college’s effort to blend academic instruction with real-world farming experience.
Faculty members through the college Dean Dr. Larry Hwang describe the harvest as part of a broader practical learning initiative designed to equip students with the technical and managerial skills needed in Liberia’s agricultural sector.
According to Dr. Hwang, through such activities, students are trained not only in agricultural supervision but also in the production techniques necessary to increase local food output.
“This program is about moving beyond theory,” one instructor noted during the harvest. “Students learn best when they can apply what they study in the classroom directly in the field.” Dr. Larry Hwang said.
The head of Tubman University Agricultural College however maintained that the initiative also contributes to local food production while providing students with firsthand experience in crop management, harvesting, and post-harvest handling.
Following the harvest, students from other colleges within the university visited the fields to observe the activity and commend their peers for the successful effort. Many praised the agriculture students for their dedication and the visible results of their education.
“I am very excited to see my colleagues from the College of Agriculture putting their classroom knowledge into real practice. Today they are producing vegetables and fruits. This is exactly what we want to see every college doing here at the university,” said Augustine H. Taylor, a freshman student in the College of Business and Administration.
Students from the College of Arts and Sciences, College of Education, and College of Engineering also praised the initiative, describing it as a strong example of teamwork and practical learning.
“It is inspiring to see our colleagues taking the lead in food production while still studying. This shows that university education should not only be about theory but also about contributing to society,” said Josephine Allison, a student from the College of Arts and Sciences.
“This project encourages all of us to think about how our knowledge can help our communities. The agriculture students are showing that with commitment and teamwork, students can make a real impact,” added Samuel Brooks, a student from the College of Education.
Another student from the College of Engineering said the initiative reflects the importance of innovation and collaboration among students.
“What our colleagues are doing here is impressive. It shows that students can apply what they learn in practical ways that benefit the university and the surrounding communities,” said Emmanuel Nyanway, a student in the College of Engineering and Technology.
Community members who visited the farm also praised the initiative and its impact on surrounding communities.
“My name is Esther Weakor, and I live in Hoffman Station outside Harper. This is what we expect from university students. Today I am buying fruits from them to sell in the community, and that is a big plus for both the university and the community,” she said.
However, Tubman University administration headed by Dr. Olu Q. Menjay, President/ CEO of the University say projects like the watermelon harvest reflect the institution’s commitment to training future technicians and supporting Liberia’s food security goals by preparing a new generation of skilled agricultural professionals.
The head of the College appreciates the hard works of the students and also the support from the administration of the University who continues to spearhead this venture in the area of agriculture. It is certain this initiative of production will continue with more fruits and vegetables from the College of Agriculture and Food Science at the Tubman University.
As the program continues to expand, the College of Agriculture and Food Science hopes to introduce additional crops and field-based learning opportunities, further strengthening the link between education, agriculture, and national development.
