OUTSIDE THE PULPIT: Give us less talk and more action

Nor was there anyone among them who lacked; for all who were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the proceeds of the things that were sold, and laid them at the apostles’ feet; and they distributed to each as anyone had need. And Joses, who was also named Barnabas by the apostles (which is translated Son of Encouragement), a Levite of the country of Cyprus. – Acts 4: 34-36
It was very refreshing to see there are still some generous Barbadians.
Mr Eddie Edghill of Dukes Plantation in St Thomas must be admired for his gift of 40 acres to the University of the West Indies Cave Hill Campus.  
The land will be used for the establishment of a Centre For Food Security And Entrepreneurship. This is a very good gesture for training our young Barbadians in one of the country’s most important sectors.
Here is a Barbadian who has put his money (land) where his mouth is.
When it comes to agriculture all we are getting is talk and promises. Right now what it needs to keep it going is money.  
Land is expensive and yet the Edghills gave without counting the cost. I would like to compare the Duke families like Barnabas in the Acts Of The Apostles, who gave generously to help those in need. What a joy it can be!
When it comes to agriculture we are producing people from the university who just possess book knowledge and no practical experience. Let us have more action and less talk.
This centre, I hope, will provide that hands-on approach to things students require.   
Mr Edghill revealed he donated the land because too many young Barbadians who were interested in agriculture or food security had no upper level place of education to improve their plight.
What I liked about the Edghills is that they gave the land without strings attached.
“The grant has been given with an open heart. Throughout many years I’ve been aware that some knowledge from training in the area of agriculture was sorely lacking.
“Few persons in agriculture, even today, have diplomas, the ability or training in agriculture.”
Thanks to the Edghills once again for their generosity.