Rethinking, reinventing and retooling the RNE (entry 1)

YPARD is currently working with FAO in order to design and plan the best approach to tackle the major challenges within the agricultural sector in RNE (North Africa and Near East region), especially as regards the youth. 

Priorities are to be set concerning the countries, which are mainly affected by these challenges such as Syria, Yemen, Sudan and Iraq. A baseline understanding looking at those countries’ current situation would give a glimpse on how to provide tailored interventions.

The new generation of farmers in the stated countries is lacking proper skills, assets, technologies and information due to the present political climate, civil unrest and continuous displacement. Thus, building solid foundations for them in terms of agricultural and nutritional education will indeed provide them with the knowhow to self-sustain themselves and have healthy food diets.

According to UNHCR, the average forced displacement period is seventeen years, which many refugees and IDPs (Internally Displaced Persons) spend entirely in camps. This accounts for the emergence of a new generation within this context.

Therefore, we perceive facilities to be installed around IDP camps as a study place, where they will follow different curriculums for various age groups that will be designed looking forward to efficient outcomes in current and future life.

Interactive platforms will provide the theoretical approach on several topics adapted to the context and needs of the people, on another hand young people will make use of a small-scale agricultural land to bring-out and test their acquired knowledge.

The curricula will be based on the introduction of new varieties, technologies, natural resource management and crop rotation along with permaculture practices. Young future farmers will test their acquired knowledge on the field, thus producing food with opportunities for the market and local trades.

We, as a young professional network, will work closely with stakeholders to implement the project where young professionals will guide and instruct “young professional to be” in their educational programme. 

Mentoring through the whole process young farmers enabling and empowering them to shape sustainable food systems creating a food-secure environment without poverty, our network will continue to fulfil its mission and vision with its team sharing information and supporting others.

It is worth noting that opportunities to get involved in this project are open to everyone, feel free to express your interest on contributing to this agenda by contacting me on: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.  we highly encourage young people to contribute to this better future.

 

Photo credit: FAO/Zaki Khozam