Since May 25th, Joyce Birungi, Project Coordinator of the ERI initiative at the Youth Association for Rural Development (YARD), has been on an enriching trip to Germany and Austria, which will continue until the end of July. This visit aims to foster knowledge exchange and collaboration in the agricultural sector.
During her stay, Joyce is meeting with farmers and NGOs in Germany and Austria to gain insights into agricultural practices and innovations. Her goal is to bring back valuable learnings, particularly in the areas of workplace safety (Arbeitssicherheit) and well-organized transportation systems.
Joyce also shared insights into the ERI approach, describing it as a dynamic and adaptable methodology that can benefit anyone, not just smallholder farmers in rural areas. She emphasized that the ERI approach empowers individuals to think critically and make decisions based on rational analysis rather than emotion.
This transformative power was highlighted by a participant who once told her, "It changes you as a person." The training on ERI equips individuals with the capacity to take proactive steps in their lives. Joyce underscores, "It focuses on solutions," emphasizing the approach's practical impact on personal and professional development.
YARD, an indigenous organization dedicated to respecting and elevating women, works with smallholder farmers, youth, women, and vulnerable children. The organization strives to put women in leading positions, reflecting its commitment to gender equality and empowerment. Joyce's highly personal motivation for her job stems from her own experiences as a vulnerable child. She is deeply committed to helping youth and others achieve better lives.
Currently, YARD is collaborating with horizont3000 on a project that focuses on gender training. This initiative aims to equip youth, women and farmer associations in the agricultural sector with simple skills to earn money while addressing gender roles.
The project begins with training current leaders to set a positive example. Traditionally, women handle all the housework and childcare, which is time-consuming. By introducing new technology, women can save time, allowing them to pursue education and increase their income. Joyce acknowledges that this process takes time, but it is a crucial step towards achieving gender equality and economic empowerment.
Joyce's dedication to learning and improving agricultural practices reflects her commitment to enhancing the agricultural sector back home. This journey is underlining the importance of global collaboration and the sharing of best practices in driving sustainable and efficient agricultural development.
