The 2016 cohort of Marshal Papworth students, on their first ever trip out of Africa, learned lessons in business and entrepreneurship from market traders at London’s Borough Market.
One week into their 10-week course in sustainable farming techniques and business management, the scholarship students from five African countries, are based at Shuttleworth College in Bedfordshire, and have a packed schedule of classroom study and hands-on field trips ahead of them.
At Borough Market, the students heard stall owners trading in a range of items from fresh fruit and vegetables, to cheese and meat, who explained the field-to-fork journey.
They also discussed the importance of and techniques for maximising yield and preserving quality during transportation, a major issue for the students in their home countries.
Helping improve the lives of over one hundred students
Current student Bahiru Asfaw Bonsema, from Ethiopia, explained what he is looking to gain from the Marshal Papworth 10-week Short Course: "I am hoping to learn innovative practices in crop management, livestock management and business management.
"I also want to improve my capabilities in information technology as this will enable me to enhance the current farming practices in my community, making them more productive and sustainable."
Marshal Papworth works with in-country charities and organisations, including Self Help Africa and Farm Africa, Tree Aid, and West Africa Farms, Senegal, to identify suitable candidates for its scholarship courses.
The charity is wholly managed by the East of England Agricultural Society and has already helped improve the lives of over one hundred students and their communities in developing countries through its Short Course and Masters Programme – one year MSc and MA courses.
In order to continue this work and to give more students the opportunity to benefit from the scheme, the charity relies on donations. To find out more and to make a donation contact Sandra Lauridsen on 01733 363514 or email slauridsen@eastofengland.org.uk for more information.
