By Barsha Gain from Shymnagar, Satkhira
A two-day training workshop on agroecology and climate justice was held recently at Mathurapur village, Munshiganj, Shyamnagar, Satkhira. Chaired by Sarma Rani, the workshop brought together 25 agroecology practitioners, interested farmers and youth entrepreneurs from Ramjan Nagar, Koikhali, Noornagar, Buri Ghulia, Kashimari and Atulia unions.
BARCIK Associate Regional Coordinator Ramkrishna Joardar, Shatabari members Sabina Akter and Sagarika Rani, proposed Agroecology Learning Centre representative Archana Rani, and Green Coalition member Shaheen Islam, among others, participated in the event.
The training sessions covered agroecology, seed diversity, the importance of uncultivated plants, nutrition, bio-pesticides, soil health, biodiversity and environmental protection, pit and vermicomposting, soil–life relationships, mixed vegetable cultivation and raised-bed seedling production during waterlogging and heavy rainfall. Participants also worked in groups to identify differences between local and hybrid seeds, the harmful effects of chemicals, and possible responses.
They visited the Mathurapur Agroecology Learning Centre to observe practical agroecological practices and climate adaptation measures. Participant Chapla Rani said that conserving seeds at home and adopting organic farming could reduce production costs, improve household income and reduce dependence on markets for safe food.
Archana Rani said the training helped participants to understand the interdependence among crops, livestock, fish, insects, frogs and other elements of the homestead ecosystem. She expressed commitment to applying agroecological practices to protect both biodiversity and community health.