Dispatching agricultural extension personnel to Japan for work and research

Nikicho Town is situated in the southwestern region of Hokkaido Province, Japan, next to the Shakotan Peninsula. The primary economic activities in the town are on agriculture and animal husbandry.

Nikicho Town's agricultural sector principally centers on the cultivation of fruit trees, including cherries, apples, and grapes, as well as greenhouse vegetables such as tomatoes and strawberries. Additionally, the town engages in rice production and dairy farming, using mostly organic farming techniques and ensuring the practice of safe animal husbandry.

Hai Phong Company, Nikicho Town, and World Lead Corporation aim to collaborate with units under the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development to recruit agricultural extension officers, as well as students and graduates from vocational schools, colleges, and universities affiliated with the Ministry. The purpose of this collaboration is to provide opportunities for these individuals to work, learn, exchange experiences, and enhance their vocational skills in various agricultural production fields, including animal husbandry, cultivation, mechanics, and more.

Deputy Minister Tran Thanh Nam said at the meeting that this is a crucial objective of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development to improve the skills of agricultural personnel and promote the growth of high-tech agriculture in Vietnam.

In June 2023, Deputy Minister Tran Thanh Nam observed the signing of a memorandum of cooperation between the National Agricultural Extension Center (Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development) and colleges, as well as Nikicho Town, World Lead Corporation, and Hai Phong Company. The purpose of this cooperation is to select and send candidates to Japan for high-tech agriculture training programs.

Following the signing ceremony, Nikicho Town, World Lead Corporation, Hai Phong Company, and units under the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development swiftly carried out the agreed-upon actions to facilitate the selection and dispatch of eligible individuals to Japan for participation in the program.

Mr. Sato Seiichiro, Mayor of Nikicho Town, suggests that in order to carry out agricultural development cooperation between Nikicho Town and Vietnam, it is necessary to thoroughly examine the organization and operational aspects.

"We anticipate that Vietnamese students and workers who travel to Japan will not only address economic challenges but also acquire knowledge, skills, and subsequently utilize the knowledge gained in Japan upon their return to Vietnam," Mr. Sato said.

According to Mr. Sato, the Nikicho District has attracted a significant number of international workers, all of whom follow this training approach. Nevertheless, this is the first prototype that has been put into practice with agricultural extension staff.

The authority of Nikicho District want to extend this collaborative training approach to adjacent districts with strong agricultural development capacities, thereby facilitating the inclusion of more Vietnamese agricultural students and officials for internships and employment opportunities.

According to Mr. Le Quoc Thanh, the Director of the National Agricultural Extension Center, the center has conducted research and surveys in Nikicho District and agreed with the district on the exchange of labor. This collaboration was initiated after signing a memorandum of cooperation and under the guidance of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development's leadership. This trade activity not only enhances workers' income but also facilitates the exchange of experiences between the two parties.

Mr. Thanh said that agricultural extension officers and interns had both training and experience in agricultural production. Furthermore, they have received basic skills training from Hai Phong Company, enabling them to readily contribute to the production chain of agencies under Nikicho District.

"Following the signing of the memorandum, we and Hai Phong Company have chosen 50 candidates, out of which 7 fulfill the necessary criteria for certificates and certifications, and are prepared to travel to Japan for a study exchange," said Mr. Thanh.

Deputy Minister Tran Thanh Nam said that the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development has tasked the National Agricultural Extension Center with meticulously selecting applicants who fulfill the necessary criteria from Nikicho District. It is crucial to prioritize the seriousness and effectiveness of recruiting and learning processes. This will enable applicants to effectively apply the information gained in Japan to agricultural practices in their home country upon their return.

Deputy Minister Tran Thanh Nam suggested that Nikicho District, in collaboration with different associations, engage in research and partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development to establish material areas, provide training, facilitate product exchange, and promote rural tourism. The pilot model for this initiative would be the buckwheat flower area in Ha Giang.