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Farm-to-Table Education Sprouts for families: A Hands-on Approach
Archyde.com, May 8, 2025
Teh Gifu Field Science Education and Research Centre, affiliated with the Faculty of Applied Biology Science, Gifu University, is offering a unique opportunity for families to connect with their food source.The public lecture, “Food and agriculture education for parents and children: Let’s grow and eat it, Imoni party!” promises a hands-on experience in sustainable agriculture for parents and their children.
The program, scheduled for two sessions, invites participants to “grow and harvest crops at a university farm” and culminates in the autumn with “a sweet potato ni party!” The goal is to foster an recognition for nature, living organisms, and the origins of food through direct engagement with the land.
Cultivating Curiosity: Event Details
The two-part workshop will be held at the Gifu Field Science Education and research Center on the Gifu University campus. The first session is scheduled for Sunday, June 8th, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. The second session,the “Imoni party,” will take place in November 2025,with the exact date persistent “in the future to match crop growth.”
The program targets “parents and children (1 guardian and 1 child between older and elementary school students).” With a limited capacity of “10 pairs (first come, first served),” early application is encouraged. The “participation fee” is “2,000 yen (including insurance premium).” Attendees are advised to wear “suitable clothing for farm work, boots, gloves.”
Why Farm-to-Table Education Matters
In an increasingly urbanized world, opportunities for children to connect with agriculture are dwindling. Programs like the one offered by Gifu University provide crucial hands-on learning experiences that can shape lifelong attitudes toward food and the environment. Studies have shown that children who participate in gardening and farm-to-table programs are more likely to eat fruits and vegetables and have a greater understanding of where their food comes from.
This type of educational initiative directly addresses concerns about food literacy and healthy eating habits, especially among younger generations. By engaging in the process of growing food, children develop a deeper understanding of the effort and resources required to produce the meals they consume.
While some might argue that such programs are more relevant to rural communities, the benefits of farm-to-table education extend to urban environments as well. Urban farms and community gardens are gaining popularity across the United States, providing valuable green spaces and educational opportunities in cities. These initiatives not only promote healthy eating but also foster a sense of community and environmental stewardship.
Applying for the Program
Those interested in participating in the “Food and agriculture education for parents and children” lecture can apply via an online form.Applications opened on Monday, May 12th, 2025. The application form can be found at: https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=g7JUf-0iPEqpRHX3VeWDBnJhSvSgiLNKl0hcYFHVm35URUZEQkpNNTFWODBaM1M0MkNNMUQ4U0E2My4u
The program emphasizes the importance of attending both sessions, stating, “As a general rule, only those who can participate on both June and November must apply. Please note that we cannot accept refunds for absences.” Furthermore, “Participation fees can only be paid by direct bank transfer in advance. Please transfer the transfer to the bank account listed in the email sent after participation is confirmed.”
Farm-to-Table Initiatives in the U.S.: A Growing Trend
The Gifu University program mirrors a growing movement in the United States to connect children with their food through hands-on agricultural experiences. Farm-to-school programs, school gardens, and agricultural education initiatives are becoming increasingly common across the country.
| State | Number of Farm-to-School Programs | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| California | 5,000+ | California Farm to School Network,Life lab |
| New york | 2,000+ | New York Agriculture in the Classroom,GrowNYC |
