Students swap digital screens for crop fields
At a time when excessive screen time and smartphone addiction are becoming major concerns among young people, a rural college in Tangail has introduced an innovative initiative that is drawing widespread praise.
Instead of spending their free time on mobile phones, students of Mohishmara College in Madhupur are learning practical agricultural skills by working in crop fields.
The initiative aims to reduce students’ dependence on digital devices while equipping them with hands-on knowledge of farming.
During practical sessions, students use traditional agricultural tools such as hoes, spades and sickles, and learn every stage of crop production-from seed selection and seedling preparation to soil management and cultivation techniques.
Mohishmara College, established in 2013 in the remote village of Mohishmara under Madhupur upazila, was founded by nationally acclaimed farmer Sanowar Hossain on 135 decimals of inherited family land.
Located about 50 kilometres northeast of Tangail town, the area is largely dependent on agriculture and is well known for pineapple cultivation.
The college was established to provide higher education opportunities for students from low-income farming families who could not afford to study away from home. It currently has more than 300 students.
The production-oriented education programme was introduced in 2018. A dedicated agricultural learning corner has been developed on 40 decimals of land, where students receive practical training in producing pesticide-free vegetables, fruits and spice seedlings.
They are also encouraged to apply their knowledge by developing home gardens and assisting their families with farming.
Speaking to this correspondent, Sanowar Hossain said he left his teaching career to pursue scientific farming and later established the college to serve underprivileged students in the locality.
He has successfully cultivated pineapples, bananas, turmeric, maize, dragon fruit, guava, coffee and other crops using modern farming methods.
According to him, practical agricultural education will help students become self-reliant and create opportunities for future agro-entrepreneurship.
Students said the programme has enabled them to grow chemical-free vegetables at home and share modern farming practices with their families. Many also expressed their ambition to pursue careers in the agricultural sector.
Lecturer Shahidul Islam said students take part in farming activities during breaks and after regular classes under the supervision of teachers. The activities not only provide practical knowledge but also promote teamwork, discipline and a healthy lifestyle.
Principal Abdur Razzak Hanan said the initiative has significantly reduced students’ unnecessary dependence on mobile phones and social media while encouraging them to engage in productive work and support their families.
College Governing Body President and Madhupur Upazila Nirbahi Officer Md Saiful Islam said the institution’s success reflects the commitment of its founder and teachers.
He noted that, with employment opportunities remaining limited, practical agricultural education can prepare students to become skilled farmers and successful agricultural entrepreneurs, contributing to the country’s food security and rural economy.
