A report of industrial training carried out at national semi-arid resources research institute (NaSARRI) - Serere.

Abstract

This internship was conducted at NaSARRI for a period of 10 weeks from 28th February 2022 to 6th May 2022. NaSARRI is located in the Eastern Agro Ecological Zone in Serere district which is about 27km south of Soroti town. The main objective of the internship was to enable students get practical knowledge, skills and monitoring and evaluation in agricultural research and other related activities. It was conducted in different sections in a rotational form. The major programs include farm management, dry land cereals, dry land legumes, fiber crops and oil crops. Various activities were carried out during the training at NaSARRI which included pest and disease identification in sorghum, grafting and budding of oranges and mangoes, nursery bed establishment, post-harvest data collection, selfing and crossing in cotton etc. While in the field, I gained skills in planting at a recommended spacing of each crop, post-harvest data collection, 100 seed counting using electronic machine, agronomic practices in various crops and pest and disease identification etc., However few challenges were faced like Inadequate tools and equipment's to be used in the nursery bed sites, poor allocation of students to different sections, lack of sick bays for treatment in case of any emergencies etc. In conclusion, I gained a wealth of experience with regards to work and am very optimistic that this industrial training will contribute significantly to my career development as an agricultural professional. However, from the few challenges listed above, I would recommend that the institute should provide adequate tools and equipment to be used at the farm, avail a healthy facility for first aid to both students and staff and also draw clear training program and allocate students to specific supervisors to avoid confusion in the institute.