Schools occupy a very important place in awareness raising activities cause of the multiplier effects students can create in conveying specific messages to the communities they live in. It is for this reason that FAO Cairo country office regularly promotes school visits within its premises. Yesterday was the turn of Hassan Abu Bakr Experimental School.

The visit started with a comprehensive introduction about FAO mission and mandate in the Near East region and in Egypt. Mr. Mohamed Elansari, assistant FAO’s representative in Egypt, explained to students how FAO operates, stimulating their interest in knowing in details field interventions in Egypt and in the region.

Students were also given the opportunity to choose publications of their interest in the regional library of FAO: nutrition awareness manuals and guides on how to cultivate plants have been the favorite choice.

After the visit to the Library, students reached the garden to learn from Mr. Mohamed Dost, crop production expert, how to seed and plant.

Curiosity and enthusiasm animated the session: following the directions of the expert, students filled their planters, seeded and watered the soil, asking many questions about how to ensure the seed will germinate and which condition will work best for the growth of the plant.

Students went back to their school determined to share with their peers their experience and to guide them on how to replicate it.