U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsack recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Agriculture Future of America (AFA). The MOU formalizes a partnership designed to prepare more young people for careers in agriculture.
Secretary Vilsack highlighted the importance of this agreement, stating, “This partnership will enhance USDA’s involvement with AFA and its leadership development and education mission. This agreement reinforces USDA’s commitment to preparing students for future careers in agriculture with an emphasis on federal sector employment.”
The MOU outlines plans for the USDA and AFA to continue their collaboration on leadership development efforts. The focus will be on connecting these young leaders with career opportunities in food, agricultural science, natural resources, and related fields.
As part of the agreement, the USDA commits to advancing opportunities for AFA delegates to participate in USDA programs, including internships. In return, AFA will facilitate interactions between the USDA and AFA delegates, providing the government agency with occasions to share information about these opportunities.
The MOU will be overseen by USDA’s Office of Partnerships and Public Engagement (OPPE), which is tasked with developing and maintaining partnerships focused on solutions to challenges facing rural and underserved communities.
Mark Stewart, President and CEO of AFA, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, saying, “Our collaboration with USDA signifies a shared vision for the future of American agriculture. This MOU is not just a document; it’s a commitment to bridging the gap between talent and opportunity. This agreement reinforces our belief that connecting young leaders with USDA initiatives will enrich their careers and contribute to a more resilient and competitive agriculture industry.”
This partnership aims to nurture the next generation of agricultural leaders and ensure the future vitality of the U.S. agricultural sector.
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