The grand opening of the Fabian Chow Training Center in Kainantu District today, December 13, 2024, marks a significant milestone for the farmers in Eastern Highland Province (EHP) and Papua New Guinea (PNG) as whole.
Built with funding support from the Australian Government’s Incentive Fund, this state-of-the-art agricultural infrastructure marks a new chapter in the country’s commitment to advancing its agricultural sector.
The Fabian Chow Training Center, under the management of the Fresh Produce Development Agency (FPDA), includes a cutting-edge tissue culture laboratory and training facilities. This establishment is designed to equip local farmers with the skills and resources needed to improve the quality and disease resistance of crops like potatoes, addressing a growing demand for certified planting materials both locally and internationally.
The facility reflects the shared vision of FPDA and its partners to drive sustainable development in agriculture. By providing farmers with high-quality seedlings and advanced training, the initiative aims to boost crop yields, enhance food security, and create new income opportunities for communities in the Eastern Highlands.
FPDA’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Mark Worinu, expressed his gratitude to the Australian Government, the Incentive Fund, and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) for their generous investment of K17 million in this vital project.
The funding aligns with the current government’s priority of supporting hardworking farmers and stakeholders in the agricultural sector.
Mr. Worinu emphasized the importance of maintaining and maximizing the benefits of this investment to transform the lives of farmers across PNG.