The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB) and the Little Rock School District (LRSD) have announced a new partnership to establish a hydroponic plant systems career pathway at Little Rock Southwest High School. This initiative aims to prepare students for careers in agriculture by providing hands-on experience and education in hydroponics, a method of growing plants year-round without soil.
Chris Riggins, UAPB's Vice Chancellor of Enrollment Management and Student Success, and Dr. Tomekia White from the UAPB Department of Agriculture, discussed the program's potential impact. "This pathway is going to create opportunities to let students see that there's more to planning than just getting outside being dirty," said Riggins. The program will help dispel misconceptions about agriculture and highlight the diverse career opportunities available in the field.
Dr. White emphasized the broad range of careers in agriculture, including agronomy, AG business, and plant research.
"You have AG business majors, which can work at Walmart corporation or Tyson's. You have- it's just so broad. It's not just about farming. You have people that are in plant research, which is particularly hydroponic system." she said. The program will also introduce students to emerging technologies like drone robotics, which are increasingly used in modern agriculture.
Read more at KATV
