In this time that Zambian communities face severe effects of climate change, deforestation, and soil degradation, them being our daily realities and a lot of people especially in rural areas must now find ways to adapt and prepare themselves for real world environmental challenges. It is at this background that the need for education and sustainable solutions becomes not only urgent but also important. As part of our mission of promoting permaculture in schools, colleges and communities, SCOPE Zambia in partnership with the District Education Board Secretaries (DEBs), conducted a two- day facilitator training and baseline survey for 12 School teachers and local communities around Rufunsa District.
This training was centred on Permaculture, Agroecology and Forestry, it brought together educators from across the district, creating opportunities to learn and engage on how to transform their communities and schools into models of sustainability The aim was not only to promote environmentally friendly practices, but also to ensure that these practices are incorporated in school lessons and community gardens. The training sessions covered topics including, principles of permaculture, organic farming, silviculture, indigenous tree planting and different ways of soil restoration.
Interestingly most of the participants had knowledge and at least heard about Agroecology but not familiar with Permaculture, as the training went on participants, were able to participate and furthermore asked insightful questions, and expressed the desire to learn more, this training showed the commitment of participant’s in bringing environmental stewardship into school cultures and community life, demonstrating curiosity and strong sense of responsibility to contribute to sustainability. Alongside the training a baseline survey was conducted across participating schools, findings had both challenges and possibilities which will inform the next steps.
Moving forward, collaborating with teachers to produce learner’s books annually will be considered, this book will introduce learners to permaculture and agroecology and forestry in age appropriate and culturally related ways, the goal is to ensure that learners can relate to the content and apply it in practical settings, monitoring visits accompanied by Debs will be conducted in these schools to ensure ongoing support and progress, permaculture clubs for learners will be created, Permaculture gardens will be established in each participating school through the efforts of the permaculture club members assisting in designing and maintaining the gardens, these gardens will showcase practices such as composting, mulching, intercropping and water harvesting, community members are also encouraged to participate and put in efforts of incorporating these practices in their farms or home gardens, Additionally to enhance communication and knowledge sharing WhatsApp groups will be established, these groups will be a platform for teachers from different schools and community members to share updates and ideas in order to have a strong support network.
This work reflects SCOPE Zambia’s ongoing commitment to empower Zambian Rural and Urban communities and schools in becoming active environmental stewards and climate activists. By integrating Permaculture, Agroecology and Forestry and bringing them into their daily lives, not only enhancing education but also shaping the lives of our future generation to come.