HI HR182

Urges the University of Hawaii Community Colleges to establish baccalaureate degree programs in agricultural technology, food science, and education at Leeward Community College

Identifies need for new farmers as majority of state's farmers are approaching retirement age and current food production would decline without agricultural technology and food technology programs

Notes that new agricultural technology programs would attract students interested in farming through participation in FFA (Future Farmers of America) in public schools

Addresses teacher shortage in leeward and central Oahu and the North Shore, with highest need along the Leeward Coast

Leeward Community College is currently accredited to offer two baccalaureate degree programs and new programs could serve interested students from other University of Hawaii Community Colleges