Theory to Practice: How 120 School Pupils Discovered Agriculture with VIC GROUP

On 8 September, VIC GROUP specialists organized an educational workshop supported by the Belgorod Region Ministry of Agriculture at the Brigantina Belogorye resort. Participants included 120 pupils from agricultural classes of the Region's schools. All the courses focused hands-on training: the pupils enthusiastically performed the tasks and asked questions.

The participants were split into groups to try their hand at different agricultural sector areas, they:

• learned to determine egg quality by candling;
• mastered pre- and post-milking udder treatment at a mastitis prevention class; sausages and the students' own fingers were used for practice as teat simulators;
• applied labels with markers and pencils, and learned visual identification methods during a labelling class.

Zhanna Chefranova, Senator of the Russian Federation representing Belgorod Region, visited the event, talked with the participants and noted the importance of such initiatives. Company representatives spoke to the school pupils about the VIC GROUP’s work and its role in developing the Region's agricultural sector.

“Our key goal is not simply to tell but also show and let the students try for themselves. Modern agriculture is a technically sophisticated and interesting field in dire need of enthusiastic young specialists”, we were told by Alexandra Ibragimova, Director of the Animal Farming Department, Southern Region, VIC GROUP. “The kids' reaction is the best feedback! They were not simply listeners but active participants; they asked smart questions and were enthusiastically engaged in the process. Such lively, practice-orientated classes help break down stereotypes about work in agriculture and spark a real interest in the profession.”

The camp's administration and ministry representatives thanked VIC GROUP for organizing the event and encouraged further cooperation.