The programme, established by TACE in partnership with Gala Macs Limited, provides hands-on learning opportunities for students and local youth while supporting community-based agricultural development. The Vice Chancellor, Professor Emmanuel Kaunda, together with Deputy Vice Chancellor, Associate Professor Agnes Mwangwela, University Registrar, Dr Phillip Kaonda, and other senior officials, toured the farm to witness the impact of the collaboration.

Speaking during the visit, Professor Mwangwela highlighted the importance of private-sector partnerships in agriculture.

“Here at Nsunga Farm, Gala Macs has made 50 hectares available to LUANAR to pilot commercial farming projects for our students and community youth. They are experimenting with crops such as maize, macadamia, soya, sunflower, and cowpeas. Through this collaboration, the youth receive training, inputs, and hands-on experience in the entire production process,” she said.

Associate Professor Mwangwela also noted the involvement of Paramount Holdings Limited and CAGE, which are introducing liquid fertilisers, including Eagle Nano Urea, and drone-assisted spraying services, respectively.

“This is a convergence of technologies and expertise, demonstrating how universities can collaborate with private partners to drive innovation,” she added.

TACE Director Dr Sera Gondwe explained that the farm is central to LUANAR’s commercialisation drive.

“We have planted 10 hectares of macadamia, experimenting with intercropping and cooperative farming models involving students and youth. This initiative shows how practical training can be aligned with commercial agriculture,” Dr Gondwe said.

During the visit, student and community cooperatives demonstrated their use of improved crop varieties and climate-smart farming practices, while Gala Macs Limited emphasised the significance of the partnership in advancing agricultural training and innovation.