ZHTF Launches YASIP 2025 with Strong Commitment to Youth, Agriculture and Food Security
The Youth in Agriculture Science Internship Programme (YASIP) 2025 officially launched July on 10, 2025, marking a major milestone in promoting sustainable development, youth empowerment, and food security. This initiative—driven by the Zero Hunger Trust Fund (ZHTF) and supported with support from the SVG Conservation Fund, aims to equip young Vincentians with hands-on experience in agriculture science and innovation. This year’s cohort welcomed 38 promising interns into a transformative journey to strengthen youth-led food security and sustainable agriculture
Empowering Our Youth
“Alanda Moses, Senior Project Officer at the Zero Hunger Trust Fund, emphasized that YASIP is not just a technical skills-building initiative, but a foundational pillar for national resilience and longterm food security,” said during her remarks at the launch.
From Theory to Practice
Minister of Agriculture, Saboto Caesar, highlighted the program’s practical focus, stating, “unlocking national wealth requires innovation, youth engagement, and a structured framework to drive development.” He underscored that YASIP bridges academic learning with real-world agricultural practice. He emphasized that while the tools exist, bringing them together with purpose is what drives real, country-wide impact.
“From Internship to Impact: Youth Powering Agricultural Resilience” is more than a slogan—it’s a call to action. CEO Safiya Horne-Bique of ZHTF framed the programme as a bridge, turning classroom knowledge into practical solutions. With placements across 18 diverse farms and agri-enterprises, interns dive deep into modern techniques—from greenhouse management to composting and agri-financing. “Agriculture is no longer a fallback—it is a frontline solution,” underscored Ms. Horne-Bique, reminding participants of their critical role.
The launch also saw remarks from the Vice President Gideon Nash of the SVG Conservation Fund who highlighted the seamless link between agriculture, climate adaptation, and biodiversity conservation—empowering interns to become drivers of positive change. Dr. Tamira Browne, Permanent Secretary of Tourism & Sustainable Development delivered remarks which inspired interns to see this moment as “a transformation for your country”—urging them to bring curiosity, energy, and commitment into the fields.
A Vision of Sustainable Development
The YASIP 2025 programme, running from midJuly through August, will immerse interns in crop and animal production, agribusiness, entrepreneurship, policy development, and sustainable farming. The YASIP experience is designed not only to develop technical capacity but also to nurture leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. Interns will participate in farm visits, production projects, and mentorship sessions, culminating in a closing ceremony where they will showcase their achievements.
Since its pilot in 2023, YASIP has expanded both in scale and impact, aligning closely with ZHTF’s mission to end hunger, improve nutrition, and promote sustainable agriculture in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. YASIP has grown from a pilot to a national movement—backed by multi-sector partnerships. Together, we are nurturing innovation, resilience, and leadership in youth across Saint Vincent & the Grenadines.
