Thursday’s partnership between Bainbridge State College and the University of Georgia is a win for our area, for many reasons.

The partnership will allow some Bainbridge State students, who meet certain requirements, to automatically qualify to attend UGA-Tifton and work on their Bachelor of Science in Agriculture degree.

Agriculture is the No. 1 driving force behind the economy of Decatur County, as well as most of the other 11 counties that make up Bainbridge State’s service area. Despite this fact, Bainbridge State has never offered an agricultural course in its 40-year history, according to college president Dr. Richard Carvajal.

There are plans for Bainbridge State to add such courses in the near future, but Thursday’s agreement is a good first step to addressing this pressing need. It’s a win for the college, a win for the students, and a win for the economy of southwest Georgia.