The MAIs Project, focused on empowering women farmers and promoting gender equality, held the Summer School of Agroecology and Sustainable Food Systems from July 19th to 22nd, 2023, in the São Pedro do Sul region, Portugal.
The event, centered around the exploration of the Flax and Wool Cycles, brought together artisans, farmers, and enthusiasts to discuss and share knowledge about these traditions. The Summer School actively involved local women farmers who led workshops and exchanged experiences on the sustainable use of these materials.
Over the course of four days, the program included hands-on activities and moments of reflection at locations such as the Cultural and Sports Association of Rompecilha, the ARCAS Covelinhas Association, the Quinta da Alagoa Cheese Factory, and the Sheep Production of D. Gloria Mõe. Through these activities, participants discussed ways to preserve flax and wool traditions while promoting gender equality in rural communities.
The MAIs Project, funded by EEA Grants Grants, represents a collaborative effort between Portugal and Norway to empower women farmers and strengthen the connection between traditions and sustainability in inland territories.