A two-day training session was conducted for the Orange Walk and Corozal District beneficiaries of the Cold Storage projects sponsored by JICA. The purpose of the training aimed to empower the beneficiaries with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage cold storage units and engage in contract farming, by strengthening the school feeding program’s ability to provide consistent, high-quality meals to students in the Orange Walk and Corozal Districts.

During the training, participants were educated on the various aspects of cold storage management. This included understanding the optimal temperature and humidity levels required to preserve different types of crops, learning about proper storage techniques to prevent spoilage and maintain freshness, and implementing effective inventory management practices to stock and minimize wastage.

The training covered topics such as handling and transportation of goods, maintenance of cold storage equipment, and safety protocols.

In addition, the training session highlighted the importance of contract farming in supporting the school feeding program. Contract farming involves agreements between farmers and buyers, to produce specific crops or products according to quality and quantity standards. By engaging in contract farming, the school feeding program can secure a stable supply of fresh and nutritious food items, allowing for better planning and ensuring the availability of meals for the students.