YOUR TEXAS AGRICULTURE MINUTE

Speak Out for Agriculture Challenge polishes communications skills

It’s called the Speak Out for Agriculture (SOFA) Challenge.

High school students who are members of Texas FFA or Texas 4-H are eligible to participate. The challenge provides an opportunity for students to develop problem-solving and communication skills, while learning more about agriculture.

The challenge is presented by Texas Farm Bureau at the Heart O’ Texas Fair and Rodeo.

Registration for the contest opens July 31. This year’s challenge is Sept. 30 – Oct. 1.

The contest involves a moderator and participants on a pre-selected topic. But it is not a panel discussion.

It is an exercise in cooperative problem solving, with the questions, answers and statements coming from any participant, at any time.

A successful participant is a productive thinker rather than an emotional persuader.

The SOFA Challenge provides an opportunity for greater participation for young, active students interested in agriculture. It helps them develop a greater command of basic discussion skills.

All valuable traits and skills for the next generation of leaders.

The preceding commentary is brought to you by Texas Farm Bureau, the “Voice of Texas Agriculture.” Called “Your Texas Agriculture Minute,” TFB will issue thought-provoking editorials each week—via print and audio—to spark understanding of agriculture in the Lone Star State and its impact on each and every Texan.

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