Uruguay: Thematic Group seeks to duplicate success of Caraguatá Pilot Project in other departments in Uruguay

Since mid-October the Thematic Group in Uruguay has been working in schools located in the suburbs of the Department of Montevideo upon request of the Elementary School Council and the Municipality of Montevideo, Uruguay.

The one-year project, which is being financed by the UN Resident Coordinator System along with FAO through a TeleFood programme, includes the construction of school greenhouses similar to those built for the Caraguatá Pilot Project. Following the successful results of the evaluation of the First Phase of the Caraguatá Pilot Project, the Thematic Group is currently developing the Second Phase of the project which includes the training and strengthening of the Caraguatá Pro-Development Committee. The Thematic Group will also establish series of programmes enabling local and department authorities to follow-up on the project.

The main objective of the Pilot Project, established within the Rural Development and Food Security Programme is to contribute to the strengthening of the local capacities for development, enhancing production and marketing of agriculture products, while promoting correct food habits and a healthy lifestyle among elementary students. Local organizations, civil society and the network of rural schools actively participated in the pilot project creating a strong alliance with Several UN System Agencies (UNDP, WHO/PAHO and FAO) the German Cooperation Agency (GTZ), the Public HealthMInistry , ANEP/CEP and the Latin American Center for Human Economy (CLAEH).

In addition to the request made by the Elementary School Council and the Municipality of Montevideo, Uruguay, the Thematic Group is also in conversations with other departments in Uruguay (Salto, Treinta y tres and Paysandú) interested in carrying out projects similar as the Caraguatá Pilot Project successfully developed in the Tacuarembó Department.

For more information on the Pilot Project please contact the FAO representation in Uruguay: FAO-UY@fao.org