International experts launch natural farming model at Guntur school

An international delegation of natural farming experts on Friday launched a pilot 2,000 sq. m. model at the Kornepadu High School in Guntur district, encouraging students to embrace sustainable agriculture to ensure future food and nutrition security.

Addressing an interactive session, Jordan Jasper of the Foundation on Future Farming, Germany, said every student should learn natural farming as food, nutrition and health formed the foundation of a sustainable future. He observed that cultivable land was shrinking across the world and stressed the need for young people to acquire practical knowledge of sustainable farming.

Explaining the internationally recognised 2,000 sq. m. model, Mr. Jasper said a family could achieve food and nutrition security by cultivating a well-planned farm on just 2,000 sq. m. He said the initiative would also encourage students to view agriculture as a rewarding career.

The delegation comprised Wanjama Njoroge Daniel, Coordinator, Seed Saver Network-Kenya; farmers Oddah Friday Ochomo and Zipporah Nyambura Kuria from Seed Saver Network-Kenya; John Kariuki Mwangi, Head, Slow Food Kenya; and Mr. Jasper. The programme began with the delegates, students and teachers planting saplings on the school premises.

As part of the Global Farming School initiative, the experts highlighted the importance of natural farming, healthy food systems, biodiversity and seed conservation. They expressed confidence that students would emerge as ambassadors of sustainable agriculture.

Y. Sudhakar, Senior Thematic Lead (Academy), Rythu Sadhikara Samstha, said successful implementation of the model could bring international recognition to the school and its students.

Officials of the Rythu Sadhikara Samstha, the Rythu Nestham Foundation, school staff, farmers and natural farming practitioners attended the programme and pledged support for the initiative aimed at promoting food security and environmental conservation.