A group of students at Guru Jajur Secondary School in Tulsipur, Dang, who are studying Agriculture (Plant Science), are engaged in various activities related to their vegetable cultivation project. Some are busy weighing vegetables, while others are negotiating with customers. These students have taken up the responsibility of growing and distributing the vegetables they've cultivated on over four bighas of rented land, which they then bring to the market for sale.
According to Resham Biswakarma, a student, the hands-on nature of agricultural education has led all the students to collaborate in the cultivation and direct sale of vegetables. She noted, "Given that our field of study is agriculture, we've gained insights into modernizing farming practices, making research more accessible as well."
The school also offers seeds, technical support, and loans as required, and students repay these loans by selling their agricultural products and depositing the surplus into a fund. Shobha Budhathoki, an IA student, mentioned that the costs associated with experiments will be funded from the same source. In Gotikhola, situated in Tulsipur-3, they have leased 8 kattha, 2 bigha 17 kattha in Ranagaon, and 1 bigha of Gadibara community forest for farming and other research endeavors.
Previously, the students successfully sold 52 kg of bodi and beans. Furthermore, they are currently cultivating various fruits such as Marigold, Mango, Jackfruit, Amla, as well as Cinnamon, Harrobarro, Soybean, and more. Samiksha Gupta, who leads the school's agriculture department, mentioned that they initiated a business venture by establishing an entrepreneur club within the school. In addition to traditional classroom learning, they have been forming groups to engage in hands-on agricultural experiments during practical classes.
Upon achieving favorable results through their diligent efforts, the students received increased motivation. The promotion of commercial farming is also emphasized as it allows students to earn income and conduct research. Additionally, this hands-on experience helps students gain insights into the types of terrain and weather conditions suitable for cultivation.
