SUstainable Rural Education STrategy

ongoing

Climate change (CC) and globalization pose significant challenges for food-producing communities in less developed countries. Industrial production in the primary sector increases CO2 emissions and cause negative effects on rural communities by competing with lower production costs, fostering territorial displacements, and disrupting local culture and social cohesion. The Rural Sustainable Education Strategy should ultimately be shaped by the cultural and educational conditions of rural populations, considering their lower educational level, isolation, and difficulties in attending long degree courses, as well as promoting key skills that allow the actors of neighboring sectors to interact profitably. This proposal addresses the training needs of Colombia and Costa Rica rural communities involved in primary sector practices to adapt and mitigate CC hazards. By offering practical courses SUREST adds the complementary training necessary for the involvement of students in contexts that normally lack graduates and postgraduates. The action aims to: 1. Contribute to the transition of the primary sector productive chain towards self-sufficiency, connection with local markets, Environmental Sustainability, Mitigation, and Adaptation to CC, by strengthening the competencies and skills needed by the territories and local communities for sustainable actions in rural areas. 2. Accompany and orient sustainable development initiatives as well as fostering related entrepreneurship solutions, by creating an environment where HEIs, local and regional administrations, and socio-economic actors can develop the skills and actions towards contingent programs linked to local needs. 3. Strengthen Sustainable Rural Development in disadvantaged communities and support conflict solutions and peace, by fostering equity and cohesion, access to technical and higher education, labour market inclusion, and peacebuilding programs for vulnerable people with fewer opportunities.