The Andalusian Government has allocated nearly 40 million euros to facilitate the incorporation of young farmers in the province of Jaén starting in 2019. This figure represents a strong endorsement of generational change in the countryside and the modernization of the agricultural sector, according to Soledad Aranda, the territorial delegate for Agriculture, Fisheries, Water, and Rural Development in Jaén.
During the opening of the 625st Intergenerational Agricultural Meeting, organized by the JAV Foundation of Villacarrillo (Jaén Agritech Ventures), Aranda highlighted that a total of XNUMX young people have benefited from this aid in the province, which demonstrates the Andalusian government's commitment to the future of the primary sector.
The delegate explained that the latest call for aid to recruit young farmers is currently being finalized. 2.900 applications have been received in Andalusia, of which almost 500 are from Jaén. In this regard, Aranda indicated that "We are working on a possible expansion of the initial €130 million loan, as it has far exceeded expectations, and we will ensure that no eligible young person is left out."
Employment for young people, an absolute priority
The participation of young people in the forum, which also included the presence of the mayor of Villacarrillo, Francisco Miralles, reinforces the commitment to knowledge, innovation, and the exchange of experiences in a key sector such as the olive grove. Aranda emphasized that "public-private collaboration is essential for the development of initiatives that support the future of Jaén's countryside, such as the JAV innovation center in Villacarrillo."
In addition, it highlighted the I Andalusian Olive Grove Strategy promoted by the Regional Government, whose main objective is to improve the sector's competitiveness at both the productive and industrial levels, promoting environmental sustainability and the circular economy. The regional delegate emphasized that the Strategy also includes the digital transformation of the olive oil sector and the promotion of R&D&I for the incorporation of new technologies.
"We dream of an innovative and competitive olive grove that will continue to be an economic engine for Jaén and Andalusia," said Aranda, who emphasized that this Strategy is born from the knowledge and experience of the farmers themselves and will be the roadmap for the 2023-2027 period.
With this commitment to young farmers, Andalusia strengthens its commitment to rural development, youth employment, and the sustainability of the agricultural sector are key pillars for ensuring generational renewal and economic growth in the province of Jaén.
