Agrotech training centre to begin teaching soon

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Abang Johari (right) examines an artist’s impression of the centre. At left is Saberkas secretary-general Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi, who is Pantai Damai assemblyman, while at third left is Assistant Minister of Youth Development Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, who is Asajaya assemblyman.

KOTA SAMARAHAN: The Sarawak National Youth Association’s (Saberkas) RM1.04 million Sagrotek agrotechnology training centre at Paloh is expected to accept its first batch of apprentices and interns in August.

Saberkas president Datuk Amar Abang Johari Tun Openg said the state government approved 12 acres of land to develop the centre, which is a smart partnership with the Agriculture Planning Institute and the Ministry of Science and Technology.

“This centre is our statement of our effort to train our youths to be involved in state-of-the-art agricultural activity and entrepreneurship,” he told a press conference following a site visit yesterday.

He said interns must possess a minimum diploma or first degree in any agriculture-related field.

“We want a continuation and only those serious in agriculture with strong credentials will be selected,” he explained.

Abang Johari pointed out that the centre seeks to produce individuals specialised in modern agricultural technology, catering to the needs of the upcoming Sarawak Corridor of Renewable Energy (SCORE) and also Samarahan itself, which is a hub for agriculture.

He said among the areas to be studied at the centre include rock melons and crossbred orchids.

An access road would be constructed to connect the centre to the main road.

The first phase will consist of administrative blocks, a lecture hall and male and female hostels.