4-H Leaders Travel to Czech Republic

Three Nova Scotia 4-H leaders and one 4-H specialist will be in the Czech Republic from Sept. 19 to 27 to take part in an exchange program to teach Czech 4-H leaders extension skills in rural youth and economic development.

This is the second time a Nova Scotia 4-H delegation has travelled to the Czech Republic as part of an international development project, but the first time the Nova Scotia 4-H Council is sending leader representatives.

The project began in 1995 when a delegation from the Nova Scotia Department of Agriculture and Marketing travelled to the Czech Republic to teach extension skills. The project continued when 4-H volunteers from the Czech Republic came to Nova Scotia this past May to learn more about the provincial program as a model for developing their own.

Ernest Fage, Minister of Agriculture and Marketing, said he's proud of the recognition this project gives Nova Scotia's 4-H program.

"This exchange is an excellent opportunity to promote the extension skills of the Nova Scotia Department of Agriculture and Marketing and the resources of the Nova Scotia 4-H program," said Mr. Fage. "By helping develop rural life in the Czech Republic with technical and leadership skills, both the Czechs and our own people benefit from the lessons learned."

The Nova Scotia delegation brings 55 years of combined 4-H experience to this project. Participating in the exchange are: George MacNeil, Bras d'Or, Cape Breton Co.; Ankie Fisher, Milford, Halifax Co.; Edna Foster, Linden, Cumberland Co.; and Valorie Oickle, 4-H specialist in Bridgewater. They will present resource materials developed specifically for this project and will focus on technological change and the leadership skills needed to help 4-H members in both countries.

"The 4-H organization is one that prides itself on helping build future community and industry leaders right here at home," said Elizabeth Crouse, manager of 4-H and rural organizations. "Everyone who is involved in 4-H in Nova Scotia should very proud of the organization they have helped build. We are recognized around the world for the abilities of our people." While abroad, the Nova Scotia delegation will participate in the Czech National 4-H Show, modelled after Nova Scotia's 4-H Provincial Show, which will be held Oct. 1-3 in Truro. Delegates will also tour 4-H clubs and learn more about Czech culture.

Project sponsors are: Agri-Focus 2000, Rural Life Opportunities Program, the Nova Scotia 4-H Council and the Department of Agriculture and Marketing.