In collaboration with the Mastercard Foundation, the Enterprise for Youth in Agriculture through Technology-enabled Vegetable Production (EYiA) project seeks to expand economic opportunities for Nigerian youth, with a particular focus on young women. The project aims to achieve this by promoting premium vegetable production as a source of dignified and fulfilling entrepreneurship on small parcels of land.
Work, Learn, and Earn Opportunity
This initiative offers unemployed youths and women the chance to receive training in vegetable production, specifically olericulture, using advanced technology. The technologies to be employed include:
- Greenhouse Farming: This climate-smart cultivation method provides growers with control over biotic and abiotic factors.
- Soilless Farming (Hydroponics): This technique allows for year-round cultivation without relying on soil, regardless of seasonal variations.
- ML & AI Tools: These tools will be utilized to monitor plant irrigation and ensure proper nutrient combinations.
- Integrated Pest Management: A combination of physical and biological control methods will be implemented to effectively manage pests throughout the project.
Student Admissions
Students will be admitted quarterly into the project, with 1000 students per quarter, grouped into 50s. This results in a yearly intake of 4000 students. Each batch of students admitted quarterly will consist of 20 groups, with each group comprising 50 team members.
Work, Learn, and Earn Structure
- Work: Each group of 50 students will jointly own a 3-plot hydroponics farm. The group will be divided into various teams, including a technical team (16 members), an agronomy team (12 members), a packaging/branding team (8 members), a logistics team (6 members), and an account/management team (8 members).
- Learn: All students will receive training in basic greenhouse setup, soilless farm setup, ML and AI technology, and Olericulture production. Additionally, students will receive specialized training based on their units, enabling them to manage the company independently.
- Earn: During the first 3 months of training, students will earn a stipend, and accommodation will be provided. From the 4th month onward, students will receive salaries from their respective companies through produce sales.
Application Process
Pre-Hub:
- Application and Selection: Applicants must watch a 3-minute video explaining the project and undergo an assessment to ensure their understanding and commitment.
- Interview Preparation: Successful applicants will receive a link to a short introductory video on hydroponics technology, guiding them on setting up a hydroponics system for personal use.
Hub:
- Hands-on Training: This 12-week training covers various aspects, including farm setup, planting, and management, as well as additional non-farm skills.
- Cooperative Group Formation and E-commerce Setup: Applicants are organized into groups of 50, with companies established based on these groups. Additionally, each batch forms a cooperative.
Post-Hub:
- Mentorship: Ongoing monitoring and mentorship will be provided for the next 2 years post-hub to ensure the continued success and profitability of the ventures.
Application Procedure
For further details and to apply,
Please visit the Official Webpage
