In line with our vision to ensure no one goes to bed hungry, Christian Food Aid International Organization (CFA) continues to nurture the seeds of sustainable agriculture and empowerment through its Sustainable Agriculture Education and Empowerment (SAEE) Project.
Between August 13 and September 9, 2025, CFA successfully implemented the SAEE Summer Hands-On Training across five (5) beneficiary schools in Ile-Ife, Osun State;
- Moremi High School
- School Of Science
- St John’s Grammar school
- Modakeke Islamic High School
- Ife Girls High School
The summer training provided a rare opportunity for students to go beyond the classroom and engage directly with the land. Under the guidance of CFA project staff and trained focal teachers, participants explored the Pfumvudza (Foundations for Farming) method, a model of conservation agriculture that promotes soil health, sustainability, and productivity.
WHAT WE ACHIEVED DURING THE SUMMER TRAINING
Through practical sessions during the four (4) weeks SAEE training program, the students learned how to:
- Clear and prepare the land
- Mapping and marking out of farmland
- Establish and maintain well-watered gardens for vegetables and fruits
- Taught how to establish and maintain Pfumvudza plot for cassava and maize
- Apply sustainable agricultural practices, such as mulching, crop rotation and minimal soil disturbance.
These methods not only increase yield but also protect the environment, thereby fostering a mindset of stewardship and sustainability among young learners.
Harvesting the Fruits of Labour
The summer program was not only a time of learning but also a season of harvest. Across the participating schools, students harvested earlier cultivated crops such as Amaranthus, Jute, Maize, Tomatoes, and Habanero peppers.
True to the spirit of equity and shared responsibility, the produce was distributed following the SAEE sharing model: 50% to students, 25% to the schools, and 25% to the Christian Food Aid International Organization for onward distribution to the needy. This approach reinforces the value of collaboration and mutual benefit within the project.
Impact and Inspiration
For many students, this hands-on experience marked their first real encounter with sustainable farming. The excitement and curiosity seen in their faces spoke volumes, which proves that agriculture, when taught creatively, can inspire purpose, innovation, and hope.
By merging education with practical empowerment, the SAEE Project continues to cultivate a generation of young Nigerians who understand that feeding their communities starts with understanding the soil beneath their feet.
When you take care of the soil, the soil will take care of you!
Looking Ahead
As we move forward, Christian Food Aid remains committed to expanding the SAEE Project and deepening its impact across more schools in Osun State and beyond.
Though Origbo Community Unity High School was unable to participate during this summer phase, future sessions will ensure every beneficiary school benefits from this transformative initiative.
A crash summer programme was organised for Origbo Community Unity High School to bring them up to speed and at par with other schools.
At CFA, we believe that by teaching sustainable practices today, we are shaping a future where no one goes to bed hungry.
