The aquaponics center at the National Vocational Rehabilitation and Training Center for Persons with Disabilities (NVRCPD) has exceeded expectations during its first six months of operation, thanks to strong community support and successful harvests, according to the center’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 become both a sustainable agricultural enterprise and a successful employment initiative for people with disabilities—one of its primary goals.
“We have a number of persons with disabilities who are actually involved in the day-to-day maintenance,” explained Calliste, noting that while training takes time, staff members are developing their skills under close supervision.
“We’ve seen significant growth,” she said in a recent interview. “We’ve planted a variety of crops—lettuce, cucumbers, peppers, celery, parsley, kale—and we’ve already completed our second harvest.”
The center’s produce has found an eager market among local businesses, with restaurants in Five Islands becoming regular customers. Romaine lettuce has emerged as their best-selling product, while their tilapia fish farming has also gained popularity among local consumers.
The center’s success has caught the attention of educational institutions. Christ the King High School has already visited the site, and discussions are underway with the British High Commission for potential funding of similar projects in local schools.
“We’ve had discussions with the British High Commission. Due to the success of our program, they’re considering sponsoring some of these projects in schools,” revealed Calliste. “So not only do they come to see us, but now we’re helping them implement these projects in schools.”
The aquaponics system has proven particularly effective for crop production. “If we plant cucumbers today, in two months we’ll have them ready for harvest,” said Calliste. “That’s the advantage of our aquaponics system: it works faster than traditional soil planting.”
However, the center faces challenges as it looks to expand. Calliste identified the need for additional infrastructure, including a nursery tank for young fish and more growing beds to meet increasing demand.
“We’re trying to raise funds and mobilize dedicated citizens,” she said. “Donations don’t necessarily have to be in cash—they can come in the form of your physical presence, resources, or materials.”
Despite these challenges, the center continues to thrive, demonstrating the potential of aquaponics as a tool for empowerment and sustainable development within the community.
