Babonneau Secondary School Aquaponics Field Trip “Expanding Horizons in Aquaponics”

Advancing Agricultural Education at Babonneau Secondary School

Babonneau Secondary School takes immense pride in its dedication to agricultural development, a commitment that has flourished over the years. Situated in one of the nation’s most agriculturally rich communities, the school’s approach to agriculture is deeply influenced by both its location and the unwavering passion of its educators. These dedicated professionals continuously strive to expand students’ knowledge of agricultural production and emerging technologies, shaping the next generation of agricultural innovators.

Currently, the school emphasizes two primary agricultural production methods. The first is traditional soil-based farming, which remains the cornerstone of agriculture. The second is aquaponics, an advanced soilless system that integrates aquaculture and hydroponics. By combining conventional and modern farming techniques, the school ensures students receive a well-rounded education, equipping them with the skills and expertise necessary to excel in the evolving agricultural landscape.

In a strategic move to enhance its agricultural program, the school has embarked on an initiative to expand its aquaponics system. This project not only introduces students to diverse farming methods but also serves as an invaluable educational resource for the broader community. Made possible through the generous support of Republic Bank and the Saint Lucia National Conservation Fund (SLUNCF), this initiative represents a significant milestone in agricultural education.

To deepen students’ understanding of aquaponics, the school collaborated with the Division of Agricultural Engineering Services, facilitating visits to pioneering aquaponics farms in the southern region of the island. These visits provided students with invaluable insights into various innovative approaches within the field.

One such visit was to the National Council of and for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD) Aquaponics Facility, a uniquely designed farm that caters to individuals with disabilities. Featuring an accessible layout, cutting-edge technology, and integrated sensors for remote monitoring, the facility exemplifies efficiency and inclusivity. Equipped with smart technology such as cameras and Alexa-enabled controls, the farm offers seamless management, providing students with an inspiring look into the future of technology-driven agriculture.

Additionally, students had the privilege of visiting the farm of Mr. Keifa Vitalis, a pioneer in aquaponics on the island. What began as an experimental venture has evolved into one of the most diverse and expansive aquaponics systems, incorporating nearly every available growing method. This fully solar-powered farm, built predominantly with locally sourced materials, demonstrates the potential for sustainable and scalable agricultural solutions. Students left the visit inspired by Mr. Vitalis’ journey, eager to one day design and implement their own aquaponics systems.

As Mr. Vitalis continues to push the boundaries of aquaponics innovation, Babonneau Secondary School remains steadfast in its mission to modernize agricultural education. By providing hands-on exposure to real-world applications, the school is equipping students with the knowledge and skills needed to lead the future of sustainable farming. With continued support from agricultural pioneers and institutions like Mr. Vitalis and the NCPD Aquaponics Facility, aquaponics is poised to play a transformative role in shaping the island’s agricultural future.