IN THIS EVER-changing world where new inventions are the order of the day and technology keeps becoming more advanced by the day, it has become crucial for farmers to get on board by empowering themselves with new skills.
For those born before computers – as the phrase is often flaunted – the journey is an uphill one in getting to grips with the new world order. As hard as it may be, it is no more a luxury or choice. It is a definite requirement.
We cannot simply continue farming as if we are still in the era of the Great Depression or the Baby Boom generation. We ought to embrace technology and avoid relying on age-old methods that do not speak to current challenges. A lot of things have changed since then, and so should our modus operandi for the sake of our farming enterprises.
While I am all for traditional farming knowledge and expertise as clearly shown in a recent column, equipping ourselves with relevant skill sets to match modern challenges of this era has now become a matter of life or death for our enterprises.
Farmers need to critically ask themselves if they have the necessary skills to innovate and create new makers for their products. Simply put, farmers need to ensure that they do not work themselves out of an agribusiness by ignoring current trends.
Basic computer literacy is a must for any 21st-century farmer. You need the computer for your record keeping and the storage of other vital files. We are living in a global village, hence the need to have access to the outside world through the internet.
Also, create more skills for yourself by attending various training sessions available. Even if it’s a single-day course; the knowledge you might pick up there would be vital to the growth of your agribusiness.
Such training also gives you a perfect opportunity to engage with like-minded individuals as much as possible so that you can learn from them. Don’t be a loner; you need others to constantly check if you are still toeing the line in terms of your agribusiness.
Most importantly, attend farmers’ auctions regularly even if you are not offering any of your animals for sale. This will help you to keep abreast of trends in the market and price fluctuations.
Also, find people that have already accomplished what you intend to do as far as your agribusiness is concerned. Farmers are usually good fellas and are always willing to lend a hand or give a piece of advice if prompted. Let such people be your mentors.
You do not need to travel the exact path they have taken, but at least you will have an idea of the challenges and opportunities that await you if you are to take the same route.
It may seem like a great morale booster when clinging to the crowd that worships you as a farmer, but nothing could be more self-destructive than that. Feel free to explore new opportunities and risk rejection, scorn and criticism from those who came before you. The result, just like a bumper harvest, is always sweet.
Most importantly, start working on achieving your targets today. Avoid daydreaming; that is akin to counting your chickens before they hatch. Get busy; get on it now. Daydreams are for losers, winners are doers. Be a winner.