By Rukhsana Rumi from Netrakona
A special seed distribution programme was organized at Abbasia High School in Kailati Union, Netrakona, with the aim of connecting the younger generation with agriculture and the traditional seed heritage of farming communities. With support from BARCIK, local varieties of bottle gourd, hyacinth bean and bitter gourd seeds were distributed among 300 students.
The program was formally inaugurated by Kailati Union Parishad Chairman Nazmul Haque, with Head Teacher Abdur Rashid attending as a special guest. Speakers of the event discussed about the importance of seed sovereignty and farmers’ rights, emphasizing that seeds are a fundamental resource of farming communities and that conserving local varieties is essential to protect agrobiodiversity from increasing commercial control.
Chairman Nazmul Haque said that today’s students will play an important role in protecting the country’s agriculture, soil and seed heritage and becoming responsible citizens who value traditional farming practices.
A notable feature of the program was the participation of rural women, who contributed locally conserved seeds from their household collections. Their role as custodians of traditional seeds was highly appreciated.
The students expressed enthusiasm about receiving the seeds and planned to grow them at home. Head Teacher Abdur Rashid said that the school would encourage students to properly care for the plants and monitor their progress, helping them develop practical knowledge and a stronger connection with local agriculture and seed conservation.