Knowing which crops can withstand cyclones, floods, pests, diseases and changing climate conditions is being highlighted as an important part of strengthening food security and community resilience in Vanuatu.
The issue is being explored by students studying Climate Resilience and Humanitarian Action (CRHA) program at the National University of Vanuatu (NUV), who are learning how agriculture can support communities before, during and after disasters.
During practical learning with the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD), students were introduced to different vegetables, root crops, fruit trees, and legumes that are being promoted for their ability to better withstand on-going climate and disaster impacts.
Agriculture officer, Ginney Napuati, said the department is working to introduce different resilient crops to help farmers adapt to changing conditions.
“Resilient crops are important because we are trying to introduce vegetables, root crops and fruit trees that can withstand different climate impacts. We are also looking at citrus varieties that can be more resistant to pests, diseases and flooding,” she said.
The students also learned that agricultural resilience is not only about the crops themselves, but also about working with farmers, communities and organisations to strengthen food security and preparedness.
Ms Napuati said Non-Government Organisations (NGOs) also support this work through training and awareness in communities.
“NGOs help the department share information with communities. We cannot depend only on the department to carry out all the activities needed for climate resilience, so support with training and awareness is important,” she said.
Lecturer for the programme, Matthew Kensen, said practical learning allows students to connect the theory they study in the classroom with the challenges communities experience.
“We learn through theory, but it is also important to go into the field so students can connect what they are learning in the classroom with what is happening in real communities,” he said.
Mr Kensen said many of the students come from different islands and communities across Vanuatu and have seen the impacts of climate change themselves.
“Many of our students come from different islands and communities where they have seen the impacts of climate change first-hand. When they have an opportunity like this, they can identify some of the solutions that can be applied in their communities,” he said.
Agriculture is an important part of livelihoods in Vanuatu, with more than 80 percent of the population depending on the sector.
Understanding which crops can better withstand climate change and recover after disasters is therefore important for maintaining food supplies and helping communities recover.
The students are expected to take the knowledge back to their studies and communities, with a greater understanding of how resilience can start with the food people grow, protect and depend on.
