SOLOMON ISLANDERS PARTICIPATE IN TRUKAI SMART FARMER PROGRAM

By Naomi TAKOMA

Trukai Industries is once again at the forefront of agricultural transformation in Papua New Guinea, rolling out the fifth batch of its Smart Farmer Program (SFP) at the Pacific Adventist University (PAU).

This batch features a landmark achievement and for the first time, two farmers from the Solomon Islands join the program, signaling a step towards regional collaboration in agriculture.

Alongside them are 49 participants from nine provinces in PNG, including Central (20), East Sepik (10), West New Britain (7), Western (4), Oro (3), East New Britain (2), Chimbu (1), Eastern Highlands (1), and NCD (1).

Among the participants is John Kukuha from the Solomon Islands, who shared his enthusiasm for rice farming.

Kukuha explained that he had previously grown vegetables in his home country but was inspired to expand his agricultural skills after learning about Trukai’s rice farming program.

“When I saw Trukai’s application, I was very interested and decided to apply.

I was fortunate to be selected, which brought me to PNG for this training,” Kukuha said.

He highlighted the importance of diversifying food sources in the Solomon Islands, where tapioca is the staple.

“With these skills and knowledge, I will now be able to plant and grow rice in the region,” he added, expressing gratitude to Trukai for its initiative in upskilling farmers in rice farming.

The Smart Farmer Program is a 20-week initiative designed to empower farmers with essential skills and knowledge for irrigated rice farming.

Participants begin with a two-week intensive on-campus training and follow it up with 18 weeks of practical application in their home communities.

Trukai’s Agriculture Field Teams provide on-site assessments during this period, ensuring participants are equipped to graduate with a Certificate in Irrigated Rice Farming, awarded by PAU or the PNG University of Technology.

Trukai’s CEO, Alan Preston, emphasized the program’s contribution to food security and economic development in PNG.

“This initiative is part of our long-term commitment to developing agriculture through training, infrastructure, and partnerships,” Preston remarked.

The program has trained over 538 farmers since its inception, with 24 model farmers now undergoing internships at Trukai’s Erap Farm in Morobe Province to scale up their operations as commercial rice farmers.

With growing participation and regional interest, Trukai’s Smart Farmer Program is a beacon of progress, fostering agricultural innovation and improving livelihoods across the Pacific.

Picture Caption: Mr. Kukuha from Solomon Islands

Thomas Tetu (Middle) Trukai Site Manager and members of the 5th batch around the provinces and the Solomon Islands.