Empowering Youth in Agriculture: The Story of Dinesh’s Long Bean Cultivation

The Climate Smart Irrigation Agriculture Project (CSIAP) is consistently committed to promoting and supporting young farmers across its project areas. As part of this mission, the CSIAP makes every effort to identify passionate and determined individuals who are eager to embrace modern, climate-smart cultivation practices. In the Southern Province, the Deputy Project Director’s Office of CSIAP identified one such individual: Mr. W.G. Dinesh Chathuranga, a dynamic 33-year-old farmer from Ranawarana, within the Weerawila Agrarian Service Centre Division. Dinesh was inspired to pursue farming by his father, Mr. W.G. Nandadewa, who is also a beneficiary of the CSIAP. 

Cleaning up weeds

 A Journey of Dedication and Learning
Dinesh’s strong commitment and determination have set him on the path to becoming a successful farmer. His current long bean (Mea) cultivation stands as a testament to his perseverance and passion, especially as this marks his first experience as a young farmer. He was first identified through a CSIAP awareness programme conducted in his area. Recognising his potential, the project enrolled him in a three-day residential training at the Climate Smart Farmer Training School in Thirappane, where he gained in-depth knowledge of climate-smart agricultural practices and technologies. To further build his capacity, Dinesh also received specialised training in compost fertiliser production, which enhanced his ability to maintain sustainable and eco-friendly cultivation practices. 

Support from Mentors and the CSIAP Team

The farmer was being guided by AF Ms. Nuwanthi 

Dinesh benefited greatly from the guidance and mentorship provided by Mr. H.J.A. Malaka, Agriculture Instructor at Mattala, who worked closely with him. Through the Farmer Business School programme conducted by Mr. Malaka, Dinesh was trained to approach his cultivation not just as a livelihood but as a viable business opportunity. In addition, Dinesh expresses deep gratitude to Agriculture Facilitator Ms. K.A.A. Nuwanthi and the wider CSIAP team for their ongoing support and encouragement throughout his journey.

Resources for Success
To ensure the success of his cultivation, CSIAP provided Dinesh with key agricultural inputs, including an insect-proof net and a drip irrigation system. With these resources, he successfully cultivated long beans on a quarter-acre plot of land.

Looking ahead
Dinesh is now eagerly awaiting his maiden harvest, a milestone that marks the beginning of a promising future in agriculture. The CSIAP extends its best wishes to Dinesh as he continues to grow as a climate-smart farmer and entrepreneur. His journey is an inspiring example for other young people to follow, proving that with the right support, training, and determination, success in farming is not only possible but rewarding.

 Story and photographs by K.A.A. Nuwanthi, Agriculture Facilitator, SP, CSIAP