LABASA businessman Vinesh Dayal said setting up a college of agriculture in the Northern Division was more urgent than ever.”Vanua Levu has a large student population and vast parcels of land. Graduates can start their own agri-businesses and become key players in food production,” he said.
Mr Dayal said there was also a need to fund young people in farming and agribusiness, especially as big companies begin moving into the region.
“With buyers like Fiji Water already interested, there’s a chance to build a strong local supply chain. If those companies come in and do everything themselves, landowners and locals could be left behind.”
Speaking at the Innovation and Entrepreneurship Summit in Labasa on Saturday, Mr Dayal urged the government to open up financial support beyond the Fiji Development Bank, allowing other banks to help fund farm equipment.
“If coronavirus taught us anything, it’s that we can move fast to support struggling sectors. Why can’t we do the same for agriculture.”
He called on the government to increase the agriculture budget and send more research and development teams into rural areas, not just keep them at universities.
“Farmers need regular access to knowledge, training and good advice. They shouldn’t have to wait or travel far to get support.”
He said the future of Vanua Levu’s economy depends on smart investment in its land, people, and farming systems.
Note: This article was first published on the print version of the Fiji Times dated June 19, 2025
