Seed School | Global Seed Savers

Women-Led Seed Saving Initiative at Kabilin Farm

Sep 12, 2024 | Activities, Farmer Features, Newsletters, Other Partners, Programs, Seed School, Stories from the Field, Uncategorized

Global Seed Savers recently held a Community Learning and Awareness on Seed Sovereignty (CLASS) session at Kabilin Farm, in partnership with Kababayen-ang Balikanhon Isip Lig-on ug Nagkahiusa (KABILIN). This initiative aimed to strengthen ties with local women farmers while introducing the principles of seed sovereignty. The session explored how seed saving can empower the farming sector, uplift communities, and benefit the environment. A key highlight was the confirmation that 18 participants will join the next Seed School 1 session, taking their first steps toward becoming seed savers!

The involvement of KABILIN members in this program offers a unique perspective, as these women balance multiple roles, from caring for their children to managing small businesses. Their participation in seed-saving presents an opportunity to validate research that shows women often take on the role of seed savers within households, given its nurturing qualities. This focus on women-led initiatives not only supports food sovereignty but also supports female farmers to take leadership roles in preserving vital seed varieties.

The creation of the KABILIN Women Seed Savers group holds great potential for producing high-quality seeds and fostering a sustainable future. As this partnership grows, we look forward to seeing how these women contribute to the seed sovereignty movement across the Philippines, demonstrating the essential role of women in nurturing both crops and communities.

Women’s Group

Hal’s discussion

Seeds ready for distribution

Training venue

Participants

Introduction of the new VAC

Supporting Farmers Through Seed Sovereignty in Bayawan City

Sep 12, 2024 | Activities, Farmer Features, Newsletters, Other Partners, Programs, Seed School, Stories from the Field, Uncategorized

Global Seed Savers recently partnered with Bayawan City’s Office of Farmers, Provincial Resources and Agriculture Bureau (OFPRAB) to host a transformative Community Learning and Awareness on Seed Sovereignty (CLASS) event. Held at the City Cooperative and Manpower Development Office, this event brought together 36 participants, with City Agriculturist Ken Artes leading the way. Mr. Artes emphasized the importance of supporting farmers to break free from dependence on seeds provided by the Department of Agriculture, allowing them greater autonomy over their crops and seed access. This message resonated strongly with participants, and by the end of the program, 20 individuals were inspired to continue their seed-saving journey by enrolling in Seed School 1.

The event marked an important step towards long-term seed sovereignty in Bayawan City. Mr. Artes laid out ambitious plans, including drafting an ordinance to establish seed libraries in every barangay and integrating seed-saving into existing farm schools, which are in partnership with DepEd.

The seed libraries will be placed in the Agricultural Development Centers, which serve as both production areas and educational hubs.

This forward-thinking approach will ensure that future generations, starting at the school level, learn the value of seed saving, creating a culture of self-sufficiency and environmental stewardship among young Filipinos.

The lessons from this event highlighted how the culture of dependency fostered by the standardized purchasing of seeds has limited farmers’ autonomy and harmed the environment. Mr. Artes’ leadership demonstrates the vital role local government officials can play in supporting seed sovereignty and improving the living conditions of their communities. His proactive approach rekindles hope that government can indeed work for the people, and with GSS’ ongoing support, we are building a movement that prioritizes farmer justice, environmental sustainability, and the preservation of indigenous agricultural knowledge across the Philippines.

Bayawan

CA, Sr. Agriculturist & GSSP Team

City Agriculturist giving his welcoming remark

Prepared seeds for Bayawan

Seed School 1 with the Benguet Association of Seed Savers (BASS)

Sep 12, 2024 | Activities, BASS, Farmer Features, Newsletters, Other Partners, Programs, Seed School, Stories from the Field, Uncategorized

Global Seed Savers and partners Benguet Association of Seed Savers (BASS) recently hosted Seed School 1 at the OMAG in Tublay, Benguet. The program aimed to equip participants with the essential knowledge and skills needed for effective seed saving, from understanding the life cycle of plants to mastering seed storage and quality control. Through hands-on learning and community engagement, the participants gained a deeper appreciation for the critical role of seeds in promoting food security, biodiversity, and sustainable agricultural systems.

A key highlight of the training was the active participation of nine experienced BASS members, who not only updated their own knowledge but also mentored new participants during practical sessions. Their involvement demonstrated the power of peer-to-peer learning, as they shared valuable insights and techniques from their years of experience in seed saving.

This collaboration fostered a sense of community among the participants, further strengthening their commitment to seed sovereignty.

The lessons from this event underscored the importance of continued learning and skill-sharing within seed-saving communities. By supporting both new and seasoned members, GSSP and BASS are cultivating a movement that prioritizes resilience, environmental stewardship, and the preservation of local seed varieties for future generations. As these participants move forward, they are taking vital steps toward building a self-sustaining, seed-secure future in Benguet.

CLASS with CROPO and Partners Good Food Community (GFC)

Apr 30, 2024 | Activities, Farmer Features, Other Partners, Programs, Project Update, Projects, Seed Library, Seed School, Uncategorized

In the heart of the Kalahi Mountains, the Global Seed Savers (GSS) team, alongside the Good Food Community (GFC), recently embarked on a transformative journey with the Chico River Organic Producers’ Organization (CROPO). The goal was to foster a deep understanding and appreciation for seed sovereignty as a cornerstone of food sovereignty.

During the immersive Community Learning and Awareness on Seed Sovereignty (CLASS) program, CROPO members were not just attendees but active participants in shaping the future of their food systems. Through engaging lectures, they explored topics ranging from the global seed situation to the practicalities of saving seeds within their unique agricultural context.

The impact was profound. As discussions unfolded, participants were challenged to reflect on their own role in seed preservation and food security. Questions like “Why save seeds?” sparked lively debates, while the Open Forum provided a platform for voices often unheard to express their concerns and aspirations. This initiative wasn’t just about learning; it was about a community taking charge of its seed and food sovereign future.

Planting Seeds of Knowledge!

Mar 29, 2024 | Activities, Farmer Features, Programs, Seed Library, Seed School, Uncategorized

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!

Participants

Manang Elizabeth leading the course

Participants

DSCN0129

Whole group at our two-day training

LEA Seed School Flourishes!

Aug 31, 2023 | BASS, Seed School, Stories from the Field

We held a Seed School with Team LEA Seed School in Capas Tarlac, fueled by our incredible partnership with Good Food Community.

We went hand-in-hand with Good Food Community into the heart of Capas Tarlac, where the seeds of knowledge took root. Fifteen passionate farmers came together, and cultivated an environment where learning nurtures minds young and old. The LEA Seed School was a living testament to the power of collaboration, as we shared insights, stories, and dreams.

As we celebrated in the shared pursuit of sustainable agriculture, every interaction was a gift. Each budding farmer, each inquisitive mind, added to the community of growth we’re nurturing together. The beauty of our Seed School lies in the bonds we cultivate, in the soil of shared purpose.

With Team LEA’s energy still dancing in our hearts, we’re reminded that every seed of knowledge we plant today blooms into a brighter tomorrow. We are so honored that our partner farmers at BASS are leading the way at these Seed Schools and inspiring others to become seed savers!

We are grateful for our continued collaboration with our partners at Good Food Community and for our shared passion in food sovereignty! As we continue to cultivate these connections and sow the seeds of change, we invite you to join us on this thrilling journey of growth, unity, and transformation.