By Robert Andre Emmanuel
The Aquaponics Centre at the National Vocational and Rehabilitation Centre for Persons with Disabilities (NVRCPD) has exceeded expectations in its first six months of operation, with strong community support and successful harvests, according to the centre’s Director, Regan Calliste.
The facility, which opened in July 2024 through a partnership between the British High Commission and the Ministry of Social Transformation, has emerged as both a sustainable agricultural venture and a successful employment initiative for differently-abled persons, one of its primary objectives.
“We have a number of disabled persons who actually maintain it,” Calliste explained, noting that while training has taken time, the staff are developing their skills under careful supervision.
“We have seen significant growth,” he told Observer in a recent interview. “We have a number of plants that we have planted—lettuce, cucumbers, seasoning peppers, celery, parsley, kale—and we’ve already completed our second harvest.”
The centre’s produce has found a ready market among local businesses, with restaurants in Five Islands among their regular customers.
Romaine lettuce has emerged as their bestselling product, while their tilapia fish farming operation has also gained popularity among local consumers.
The centre’s success has attracted attention from educational institutions. Christ the King High School has already conducted a site visit, and discussions are underway with the British High Commission about potentially funding similar projects in local schools.
“[We have been] in discussion with the British High Commission. Because of the success of our programme, they’re looking to sponsor a couple of these projects in the schools,” Calliste revealed. “So, it’s not only do they come by and see us, but now we are helping them to put these plans into the schools.”
The aquaponics system has demonstrated particular efficiency in crop production. “If we plant cucumbers today, in two months’ time we have cucumbers to harvest,” Calliste noted. “That’s the advantage of our aquaponics plant – it works faster than actual planting in the ground.”
However, the centre faces challenges as it looks to expand.
Calliste identified the need for additional infrastructure, particularly a nursery tank for young fish and more growing beds to meet increasing demand.
“We’re going through the process of trying to build funds, have some dedicated citizens,” he said. “Donations don’t always have to be money – that could be your physical presence or resources or material.”
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