Food science program has international flavour

COLUMBIA - Colombia may be known as the world's top producer of cocaine but Claudia Escandon has other plans for her beloved homeland.

One of 45 students enrolled in a brand new program for internationally trained agrologists (scientists of food production), Escandon wants to build bridges between Canada and Colombia.

"I think the farmer from Ontario can be connected to the farmer from Colombia," the former Bogota-based food marketer said yesterday, following opening ceremonies for the international agrologist training program at the Ontario Institute of Agrologists.

With the help of a $1.13-million grant from the Ontario Ministry of Citizenship and Immigration, Escandon and her classmates will get industry-specific language training, an articling period and mentoring.

Source: Hamilton Spectator