An Emotional Final Day at Mudrenicagi, Fiji: Closing of the Farmer Field Schools Training in Sustainable Agriculture

The Farmer Field Schools (FFS) training at the Mudrenicagi Organic Learning Farm came to a close on 18 July, in a spirit of sharing and gratitude. Over two weeks, fifteen participants from Viti Levu and Vanua Levu—including representatives from the Ministry of Agriculture, the Ministry of Waterways, and GIZ Pacific—took part in an immersive training focused on sustainable farming practices.

We share here the testimonial of one of the participants, Viliame Gaso Jnr:
“We arrived as strangers, but through shared experiences, deep conversations, and hands-on learning, we forged bonds that now feel like family. As the training ended, many of us found ourselves wishing it could continue for another two weeks.
Our final day, 18th July 2025, was a celebration of everything we’ve learned and experienced. We had our Certificate Presentation Ceremony, followed by a delicious farewell lunch that brought laughter and reflection.
We extend our deepest gratitude to the owner of Mudrenicagi Organic Learning Farm for being such a warm and generous host. To the incredible women who lovingly prepared our meals each day—vinaka vakalevu vei kemudou na Turaga kei na Marama dreus Vakabibi veirau na marama Tau mai Kadavu.

A special thank you goes to the Pacific-Community-SPC and the Kiwa Initiative for sponsoring this impactful training and supporting such an important step toward sustainable agriculture in Fiji.

What made this training truly special was the presence of some of Fiji’s most respected farmers:

• Marama Vanilla from Taveuni
• Teitei Taveuni
• Mr. Isei Tudreu, former CEO of Airports Fiji Ltd, now a farmer in Sabeto, Nadi

…alongside passionate farmers from all across the country.
Though we were only 15 participants, the knowledge, experience, and unity we shared will have ripple effects in our communities for years to come.
To our brilliant facilitators from Thailand, Vietnam, and the Philippines—thank you for your wisdom, patience, and dedication. Your insights have inspired us all.
As we return to our farms and clusters, we go not just as trained facilitators, but as champions of change—ready to implement what we’ve learned and share it with others.
Vinaka vakalevu, Mudrenicagi. Vinaka vakalevu, Fiji.Vinavalevu djina SPC TEAM Tau Emosi Cagi ,Tau Vilimaina Tamata Balenaivalu vata kei marama dreus Mafi Lavenia Kemudou tuga yacova noda sota ka tarava."