By Suman Ali from Rajshahi

An experience-sharing and discussion meeting titled “Women’s Role and Empowerment in Agroecology” was held in Karigorpara of Borigachi Union under Paba Upazila recently organized by BARCIK. Members of various organizations, including the Karigorpara Women Development Organization, actively participated in the event.

During the discussion, participants highlighted their close connection with agriculture and shared various initiatives and plans undertaken to enrich model Shotobari (dubbed as Nutrition Bank) and seed houses, as well as to promote the use of organic pest management. They also openly discussed about the challenges and problems they face.

The event was escorted by Raihan Ali Jewel, BARCIK’s Program Officer Amreto Kumar Sarker, Associate Program Officer Touhidul Islam, and Community Facilitator Uttam Kumar, among others.

The discussants in the event said that women have made significant progress in practicing agroecology compared to the past, and their contributions in this field are invaluable. Many expressed interest in utilizing the fallow lands and unused spaces around their homes to develop model Shotobari.

They further expressed a strong desire to consume safe and nutritious food produced at home rather than buying chemically-contaminated food from the market. Through this, they aim to ensure better health and gradually achieve self-dependence.