by Shadel Nyack Compton
Grenada proudly celebrates the graduation of Niger Timothy Houston, who received his degree as an Agricultural Engineer from EARTH University in Costa Rica during its 33rd Graduation Ceremony on 5 December.
He was one of 108 graduates from 27 countries and is part of a growing group of Grenadians who have chosen EARTH University for advanced training in sustainable agriculture. With 4 Grenadian students currently enrolled and one previous graduate, the relationship between Grenada and EARTH continues to strengthen at a time when the nation is focused on modernising its agricultural sector and building resilience in food production and rural development.
Houston reflected that EARTH University played a transformative role in shaping his academic, professional, and personal development. He shared that EARTH has given him the skills, confidence, and global perspective to serve Grenada in a meaningful way, and that the training prepares students to solve real problems, lead with purpose, and think beyond limits. He encouraged young Grenadians to apply, noting that the education opens doors and empowers graduates to create change. His Grenadian colleagues studying at EARTH joined him in celebrating the achievement, underscoring the strong camaraderie among the Grenadian students on campus.
Dr Khan Nedd, Chair of the Board of Trustees of the W K Kellogg Foundation and a member of EARTH University’s Board of Directors, attended the graduation in support of Houston and to affirm the importance of investing in education that strengthens communities. His work in global philanthropy and leadership aligns closely with EARTH University’s mission to prepare young professionals to address pressing challenges in agriculture, climate, and equity. Dr Nedd has emphasised that EARTH graduates are equipped with the technical expertise and values needed to create solutions and contribute meaningfully to national development. His longstanding commitment to expanding educational opportunities continues to reflect this broader vision.
Also present in support of Houston was Victor Sánchez of EARTH University’s Development and Advancement Division, who plays an important role in identifying and encouraging talented students from around the world, including Grenada, to pursue studies at the institution. He has shared that the education offered at EARTH is both technical and deeply human, shaping students in persistence, discipline, character, and environmental responsibility. He noted that the university’s multicultural environment prepares students to think creatively and lead effectively in addressing global challenges, and he expressed confidence in the potential shown by Grenadian students.
Belmont Estate maintains a close and growing relationship with EARTH University through internship placements for third-year students and graduates, offering practical exposure to sustainable agriculture and agribusiness operations. Shadel Nyack Compton, Managing Director of Belmont Estate, expressed how pleased she was to attend the ceremony and support Houston at this important milestone. She reaffirmed her appreciation for EARTH University’s rigorous and values-based educational model and noted that the institution offers exactly the type of training Grenada needs to build a strong, innovative, and sustainable agricultural future. She encouraged more young Grenadians to explore and apply to the programme.
Grenada’s continued development depends on cultivating leaders equipped to advance climate-smart agriculture, environmental stewardship, and rural transformation. EARTH University’s academic programme and supportive campus environment enable Grenadian students to thrive and return home with the tools and confidence to contribute meaningfully to national progress. The graduation celebrations concluded with vibrant cultural presentations in which the Grenadian students proudly participated, sharing their heritage alongside peers from across the world.
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