AFPI conducted a training workshop on rice seed production technologies and rice-based product development specifically targeting youth and women entrepreneurs from Ekiti State. The workshop was held at the Cappa Bar Hall, International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Ibadan, Nigeria, from 22 September to 10 October 2019.
Programme Focus Areas
The workshop was designed to equip young entrepreneurs and women with both technical and business skills:
- Technical Training: Rice seed production technologies, variety identification, quality standards, nursery management, and field establishment
- Rice-Based Products: Processing, packaging, branding, and quality improvement for rice-based products
- Enterprise Development: Business planning, financial management, and market strategies for small rice enterprises
- Value Addition: Parboiling techniques, milling, and quality improvement to access better markets
The training was highly participatory, combining classroom sessions with hands-on field practice at IITA's research facilities. Many participants went on to establish community-based seed production enterprises and small rice processing businesses.
Impact
Following the training, many participants established community-based seed production enterprises, supplying quality rice seed to farmers within their localities. Women groups developed small rice processing businesses, producing cleaner and better-packaged rice that attracts higher market prices.