Scientific Publication

Learning about sustainability and gender through Farmer Field Schools in the Taita Hills, Kenya

author(s) Najjar, Dina - Spaling, Harry - Sinclair, John
from International Center for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA)
permalink open
themes
regions
  • Eastern Africa
  • Sub-Saharan Africa
  • Africa
  • World
citation

Dina Najjar, Harry Spaling, John Sinclair. (26/9/2013). Learning about sustainability and gender through Farmer Field Schools in the Taita Hills, Kenya. International Journal of Educational Development, 33 (5), pp. 466-475
Learning about sustainability and gender through Farmer Field Schools in the Taita Hills, Kenya

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Abstract

This research uses transformative learning theory to explore how Farmers Field Schools (FFS) of the Taita
Hills, Kenya have contributed to environmental sustainability, with a particular focus on gendered
learning. Both genders experienced transformations in their meaning schemes related to farming (e.g.,
men and women switched their traditional roles in tillage and planting). A significant change in meaning
perspective occurred among men who overcame personal biases and a cultural practice of land
inheritance for males to now include their daughters. More research is needed to explore how all
participants (farmers, extension agents, scientists) could enhance sustainability efforts and gender
equality through agricultural participatory education projects such as FFS

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