Grassroots Leadership Training Programme

Co-ordinated and run by Wongsanit Ashram.

GLT Training for the Assembly of the Poor

SEM works closely with the Assembly of the Poor, an organisation serving the interests of the rural and urban poor from various provinces and regions. The Assembly consists of small farmers, NGO workers, academics, students, and other social activists. SEM has worked with the Assembly to promote greater co-operation between rural and urban communities and is helping to empower marginalised communities nation-wide.

In June 1999 SEM held a five-week training program for sixty national leaders of the Assembly of the Poor to protest against socio-economic injustice. The 'classroom' was an ongoing protest settlement near the Pak Moon Dam. SEM members and village leaders worked together to identify activities that would strengthen the people's movement and foster a sustainable, self-reliant community.

During the training 'participant centred learning' was stressed as a way to educate and empower the people. Non-violent action within the activist movement was the basis for all discussions.

Highlights:

• Buddhist monks discussing how Buddhist teachings relate to contemporary political issues.
• Learning about community businesses centred around an ethic of fairness for producers and consumers.
• Learning about organic and natural farming methods.
• Developing a traditional health-care censer and a pre-school in the protest village, growing organic vegetables for their own use, and starting a youth environmental group.

printable version