EDUCATION

FAO invites educators and students to dive into aquaculture through the "Farmers of the Water Toolkit"

Roma, 16 January 2025 | A Comprehensive Guide to Cultivating Knowledge and Sustainability in Aquaculture

Farmers of the Sea - CGFM - FAO

The General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean (GFCM), part of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), has published "Farmers of the Water", an educational toolkit that provides outstanding resources designed to inspire students and educators across the Mediterranean and Black Sea regions to engage with the critical topic of sustainable aquaculture.

Its innovative approach successfully combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on activities to promote understanding of the environmental, economic, and social dimension of aquaculture, aligning with the broader Blue Transformation vision.

Divided into three well-structured units, the toolkit caters to a diverse audience: Unit 1 equips teachers with comprehensive insights into aquaculture, while unit 2 and 3 guide younger and older students respectively through interactive lessons, teamwork exercises, and campaigns.

These activities are cleverly designed to foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills, encouraging students to view aquaculture as both, a viable career path and a means to address global challenges such as food security and environmental sustainability.

One of the standout features of the document is its thematic focus on restorative aquaculture and integrated multi-trophic systems, presenting these as essential innovations for reducing environmental impact and enhancing ecosystem services. The practical examples and data presented-such as the potential of aquaculture to produce nearly 3.3 million tonnes of food annually in the region-add substantial value and real-world relevance.

However, the toolkit goes beyond technical details. Its emphasis on educational inclusivity, form simplified concepts for younger audiences to complex methodologies like design thinking for older students, ensures accessibility while maintaining intellectual rigour.

This publication not only supports the educational goals of the FAO but also empowers future generations to contribute to a more sustainable and resilient aquaculture sector.

It stands as a model for how educational can drive meaningful change in the way we produce and consume aquatic resources.

Find the toolkit here:

Farmers of the water. Education toolkit for the Blue Transformation of aquaculture in the Mediterranean and the Black Sea

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