The objectives of Understanding & Assistance Missions are to:
- To provide extension work in developing countries through hands on assistance with local farmers.
- Provide guidance and support to RASC Developing Country Member Societies in the staging of an Agricultural Show.
- Strengthen links between young people in building Networks for future assistance and cooperation.
- Increase Respect and Understanding amongst young future leaders.
- Provide a learning opportunity for sponsored NG delegates to enable them to share and contribute their knowledge in the mission’s host country
- Grow delegates’ agricultural perspective to create a positive impact once returning home.
ABOUT NG
Mission History
The Youth Forum held at the Calgary Conference 2006 discussed collaboration amongst young agriculturalists over a visit by the NG group to a developing. The RASC agreed, and identified that there is a great opportunity as well as enthusiasm for collaboration.
- In countries where there is a very low literacy rate, particularly amongst rural communities, there is great worth in providing agricultural advice of that go back to basic principles. These can usually also be demonstrated in a practical way that is easy to understand.
- The participation in the mission by delegates from developing countries is vital in transferring knowledge between countries where agricultural practices and techniques may be of a similar nature.
- It is also beneficial for the farmers visited to interact with young farmers from both developed and developing countries.
- The effectiveness of the group is increased by having contributors from diverse backgrounds and areas of expertise.
- The Next Generation has successfully organized 3 Understanding & Assistance Missions which have taken place in Zambia 2007 (youtu.be/SiMBCnyArlo), Papua New Guinea 2009 and Singapore/India 2011.
The President, HRH The Princess Royal, has actively encouraged and supported the Society in its work within developing countries and in her address during the CAC in Edinburgh, she spoke of the importance and worth of the NG Missions to all RASC member societies and encouraged them to participate.
The 7th NG Mission to the Caribbean took place in 2019. For more information and photos click here.
Contact Next Generation
If you are interested in becoming part of the Next Generation you should apply to the RASC member society with whom you have existing involvement.
If you are not currently involved with an RASC member society but you would like to become involved please contact the RASC Next Generation Facilitator who can assist by putting you in touch with a member society in your region or country.
For further information please contact:
RASC Hon Next Generation Facilitator
Rebecca Dawes & Breyton Milford