AGRICULTURE- Agrolearn is an innovative capacity building and job creation platform. Agrolearn launched its elearning platform to further ensure that more people can access quality education which is a major gap in the African agricultural sector. Agrolearn is focused on drastically reducing unemployment starting from Nigeria by equipping the next generation of agrarian leaders in Africa with relevant knowledge, skills, trainings, etc. Agrolearn also helps facilitate internship opportunities for top learners and fresh graduates to help them soft launch their careers.
The launch event, themed “Cultivating Prosperity: Setting the Pace for Food Security and Continuous Growth in the Agricultural Sector,” brought together industry experts, government representatives, and stakeholders committed to driving sustainable development in agriculture.
The launch of Agrolearn’s transformative platform marks a significant milestone in addressing the critical challenges faced by the agricultural sector. Founder Ms Tolulope Aina emphasized the platform’s mission to change the narrative of agriculture practice and increase food security across Nigeria. Drawing from her experience as an agriculture graduate, Tolulope recognized the need for more access to accurate and timely information as a significant impediment to progress. Agrolearn aims to bridge this gap by providing quality courses created by global experts, enabling agriprenuers and farmers to thrive.
One of the critical strengths of Agrolearn lies in its ability to contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Through its practical courses, Agrolearn directly tackles various SDGs, such as No Poverty, Zero Hunger, Quality Education, Decent Work and Economic Growth, and Sustainable Cities and Communities. By empowering learners with practical agricultural skills and knowledge, Agrolearn actively promotes sustainable practices, fosters food security, and drives economic growth in Africa. Agrolearn also helps facilitate internship opportunities for top learners, fresh graduates, and agribusiness enthusiasts considering a career.
The launch event witnessed an enthusiastic response from industry experts, government representatives, and aspiring agriprenuers. Participants engaged in insightful discussions, networking, and knowledge-sharing sessions that further underscored Agrolearn’s commitment to transforming the agricultural sector in Africa.
The event featured renowned keynote speaker Dr Debisi Araba, a public policy, innovation, and strategy specialist focused on the future of food, the environment, and entrepreneurship. Dr Araba delivered an inspiring keynote address, highlighting the potential of agriculture and how Agrolearn contributes to harnessing that potential.
Other distinguished speakers at the launch included Laurie Murrah, a project consultant and chief of staff to the CFO of Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. Laurie shared practical expertise and exciting opportunities in the agricultural sector, leveraging her experience as a public policy service member, course contributor on Agrolearn, and volunteer at Winrock International.
Dr Mike Bassey, the country director at Winrock International (Nigeria), provided profound knowledge on leveraging technology and innovation for agricultural development. With his extensive experience in microfinance training and finance management, Dr Bassey has successfully managed farmer-to-farmer projects for USAID and innovation programs for the federal republic of Nigeria.
Additionally, Farmer Samson Ogbole, an esteemed thought leader in agriculture, shared his journey of sustainable farming practices and driving positive, innovative change in the agricultural landscape. His experiences served as inspiration for the audience.
During the product demo, Tolulope highlighted that Agrolearn offers self-paced learning opportunities for students and aagripreneurs, ensuring quality and accessible information for all agricultural activities. She further emphasized that access to the platform is affordable, with discounted prices for the first month of operation.
Tolulope expressed hope for future collaboration with governments and development organizations to expand access to funding, making the platform accessible to a broader range of individuals, regardless of their financial situation.
The launch event received commendations from various stakeholders. Mrs Olatokunbo Emokpae, the Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture, represented by Mr Emmanuel Audu, expressed support for Agrolearn’s initiative. She acknowledged the importance of innovation and skill development in the agricultural sector to drive economic growth and food security. Mrs Emokpae highlighted the need to involve youth and women, promoting inclusiveness in agribusiness.
Mrs Remi George-Ashiru, representing the Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Science and Technology, Engr. Ibilola Kasunmu applauded Agrolearn for integrating technology into agriculture. She emphasized the ministry’s commitment to leveraging technology to improve agricultural business and welcomed the collaboration with Agrolearn to advance agricultural development.
