Planting Seeds of Knowledge!

Planting Seeds of Knowledge!

We’re thrilled to share an exciting update from Global Seed Savers, where we’ve been busy planting the seeds of knowledge through our recent programs. In collaboration with the Partnership for Indigenous Knowledge Philippines (PIKP), we hosted a dynamic two-day workshop on our Community Learning and Awareness on Seed Sovereignty (CLASS) alongside Seed School 1 – Basic Seed Saving Course.

Led by the passionate facilitators Sarah Sabado, Elizabeth Martin, and Ding Fuellos, this two-day training was more than just a workshop; it was a transformative experience! Participants dived into the heart of seed sovereignty, learning not just how to save seeds but why it’s crucial. We explored the beauty of naming and describing seeds within cultural and linguistic contexts, highlighting the importance of these practices in preserving our agricultural heritage.

Our partnership with PIKP has been instrumental in amplifying our impact. Together, we’ve created a nurturing environment where participants can connect with their Indigenous knowledge and local realities, inspiring them to become advocates for sustainable food systems. Our curriculum, divided into three engaging modules, has sparked a newfound passion for seed saving among participants.

 

In Module 1: Participants gain insights into the local seed situation, seed security, and Indigenous food systems, fostering a connection with their cultural heritage and community practices. 

 

 

 

 

In Module 2: Why Save Seeds?, the focus shifts towards understanding the intrinsic value of seed saving in enhancing crop diversity and ensuring food security. 

Module 3: Seed Science equipped participants with practical knowledge and skills essential for effective seed collection, preservation, and sharing, inspiring them to become stewards of agricultural resilience and biodiversity conservation.

 

From understanding the local seed situation to the science behind seed saving, we’ve supported our community with the tools and knowledge needed to cultivate resilience and promote biodiversity.

Through these initiatives, we aim to not only disseminate knowledge but also inspire action and foster a community of seed savers dedicated to preserving agricultural heritage and ensuring a sustainable future!

Cultivating Impact through Inventory Innovation!

Cultivating Impact through Inventory Innovation!

Global Seed Savers recently embarked on a series of seed inventory initiatives to conduct inventories in Cebu City, Catmon, Aloguinsan, and Babag. Led by Sweetie Maurillo, these efforts are vital in ensuring the availability and effective management of seeds for agricultural purposes among all partner farmers. The inventories serve as benchmarks and facilitate seamless access and optimal utilization of seeds.

 

Through these initiatives, valuable lessons have been learned about the importance of conducting seed trials and germinating seed stocks to rejuvenate and replenish the inventory, maintaining high-quality seeds in our library. Seeds are not mere items for display or collection; their primary purpose lies in their ability to germinate, grow, and ultimately produce plants. By prioritizing their utility and ensuring they are actively used for cultivation rather than just stored, we maximize their value and potential impact.

 

 

Local policy support is crucial for promoting the conservation of heritage crops, while community engagement fosters collaboration among farmers, policymakers, and stakeholders. Access to resources, such as quality seeds and agricultural inputs, is essential for cultivating heritage crops.

 

Seed inventory helps in resource planning for future planting seasons by ensuring the availability of a sufficient quantity and variety of seeds, thus promoting crop diversity and resilience. It also helps mitigate risks associated with crop failures, pests, diseases, and unforeseen events, ensuring continuity in agricultural production.

 

 

Education, capacity building, and support of farmers in seed production are key aspects to reduce reliance on external seed sources and promote self-sufficiency. Lobbying for government support and funding toward seed-saving initiatives and conservation programs is also essential for long-term sustainability.

We are looking forward to continuing to add to our seed inventory and support our local seed libraries with needed seeds!