Refugee Focused PDC | 2022

Course participant sharing a method of grafting with the class.

CLIENT TYPE

INGOs: Permaculture For Refugees

NGO: Sporos Regeneration Institute & Cob.gr

CHALLENGE

In 2022, 2,371 refugees were granted residency in Greece, while approximately 19,000 arrived by sea and land (UNHCR, 2022). Sporos Regeneration Institute, based in Lesvos and focused on regeneration education through support for various projects across the island, organized a 2-week refugee-focused PDC with 17 participants (refugees, asylum seekers, and EU residents from various countries)  in collaboration with Cob.gr and Permaculture for Refugees. Maramia was brought on to co-teach and lead various sessions.

APPROACH

The Maramia team used Participatory Learning and Action methods to guide participants and emphasize group knowledge sharing through conversations regarding the ethics and methods of Permaculture. The course was adapted to various English levels while focusing on adapting Permaculture techniques to transient life circumstances. Maramia assisted with answering questions during hands-on activities and with providing growth-oriented feedback during final design presentations.

OUTCOME

17 certified Permaculture designers returning to various countries. Permaculture for Refugees has documented the capacity of PDCs to help refugees receive visas in EU countries.