In the short-term, the farmers participating in the scheme will receive funds to start on small scale agricultural projects of their choice. In addition, they will receive assistance in the field of animal husbandry to raise livestock (poultry, fish and dairy farming etc.) To educate them in relevant areas we hope to hire a resource person who is knowledgeable and experienced in farming.
Concurrently with education in sustainable and environment-friendly farming, the farmers will have the opportunity to improve their computer skills and to familiarize themselves with other appropriate modern technology. Training sessions will be arranged on the use of the Internet for communication and the ATM card system for easy bank transactions. The Horizon Lanka Academy’s students will play a key role in providing ICT training to their parents. The project team will bear the overall responsibility for identifying the topic areas needed to be dealt with and planning the training sessions.
On a long-term basis, it is hoped that the farmers will be able to market their produce at reasonable prices and eliminate the excessive wastage that is prevalent at present. Direct purchase of equipment and seeds from the suppliers for farming and direct sales of produce to retailers in the major cities and reputed supermarkets will allow the farmer to receive a more equitable return for his investment than what exits today.
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