Feed the soil and let the soil feed the plant

A video summarizing VCIL Community's and The Soil Project's journey of learning about the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy in Thailand this September. Thanks to the members of Pudalay Mahavijalaya for producing the video and supporting the training program. Thanks to P'Tang and P'Bouquet for accompanying and coordinating the program, and thanks to the hosting and facilitation of Mab Ueang Agri-Nature Center, Agri-Nature Network, Ecovillage Arsa Shaona Mahanakorn, Arsomsilp Institute of The Arts. Thank you VCIL and our friends! 💗

Text by VCIL Community

"As a part of “Module 2 of The Soil Project: Hands Education - Sustainable Living & Development'' and in collaboration with the Mab Eaung Agrinature Center, The Soil Project is organizing an international training program with the theme “Sufficiency Economy Philosophy for Sustainable Development Goals.” This program is scheduled to take place from September 18th to September 30th, 2023, in Thailand. Our mission is to work towards a regenerative and sustainable world while also sharing and spreading the wisdom and vision of the Late King Bhumibol Adulyadej (King Rama IX).

Our diverse group of 25 participants includes individuals working in or related to agriculture. We have 1 participant from Taiwan, 2 from Laos, and 22 from Vietnam. This group boasts a wide range of backgrounds and interests, with some participants owning their own land and striving for self-sufficiency, while others are transitioning into agriculture. Some are farmers, some focus on research related to waste management, and others are involved in community development in the central highlands. This diversity of backgrounds and interests makes our group vibrant and fascinating.

Despite a tight schedule that mirrored the daily routines of farmers, our days began promptly at 6 am and concluded around 10 pm, packed with valuable interactions, learning experiences, and unforgettable moments.

Prior to arriving at Mab Ueang, we explored two remarkable projects initiated to address local challenges. Our first stop was Chak Daeng Temple, a place dedicated to controlling waste entering the Chao Phraya River, which flows south to the Gulf of Thailand in the Western Pacific Ocean. This initiative was spearheaded by Pra Maha Pranom monk. During our visit, we engaged in meaningful conversations with the monk, listened to his inspiring story, and had the opportunity to ask questions related to the project. We also toured the temple, witnessing the recycling systems in place that transform trash into valuable resources, including oil, compost, and textiles. The temple also serves as an educational center for local communities to learn about waste management.

Another inspiring visit was to Pathom Asoke, a Buddhist group in Thailand dedicated to practicing self-sufficiency at the village community level, where everything is self-produced within the community. Our interactions with the residents provided deep insights into this self-sufficiency movement. We explored various places within the community, including a medical center (which was a surprise due to the lack of patients!), a medicine production center, and a school.

Following these enlightening visits, we embarked on a 7-day training program with Mab Ueang Agri-nature Center, with assistance from Pudalay Mahavijalaya school (รร. ปูทะเลย์มหาวิชชาลัย - ศูนย์การเรียนกสิกรรมธรรมชาติมาบเอื้อง). To truly understand the Sufficiency Economy, we didn't just talk and imagine it; we immersed ourselves in various initiatives, social movements, communities, and engaged in community activities to gain practical insights.

We had the privilege of meeting Dr. Wiwat Salyakamthorn, known as Ajarn Yak, who shared the inspiring journey of Mab Ueang, from an idea on paper to a tangible center open for everyone to visit. We also engaged with Ajarn Thor to learn about social movements and the 5P framework, as well as the collaboration mechanisms known as 3-5-7. We developed a deeper understanding of the AgriNature Network. Additionally, we interacted with Buddhist monk Phra Sangkom Thanapanyo, who introduced us to the concept of “New Theory Agriculture” (Kok Nong Na model) for Sufficiency Economy. We met Vorakhet, a billionaire inspired by the Sufficient Economy philosophy initiated by the king, and we witnessed the process of building an ecovillage. We also had the privilege of a session with Prapapat Niyom, director of Arsom Silp Institute of the Arts, where we explored Social Entrepreneurship & Social Enterprise.

Furthermore, we dedicated time to learn about Sufficiency Economy, Agri-Nature Principles, the concept of 3 plantations for 4 Benefits, the 4P framework along with marketing strategies, and the 5 levels of Tree. We witnessed the practical implementation of these concepts at various locations we visited, especially at Mab Ueang Agri-Nature Center in Chon Buri and Arsa Shaona Mahanakhon in Bangkok.

In addition to theoretical knowledge, we had the opportunity to visit various projects and initiatives to witness how these concepts are applied in real-life scenarios. These visits included the Grandpa Market, Arsa Shaona Mahanakhon, and the alternative university - Arsom Silp Institute of the Arts.

Moreover, we acquired various techniques and management skills that we can take back to Vietnam and apply in our respective areas. These included water treatment, water system management (rainwater harvesting), soil management, the Social Entrepreneurship model canvas, landscape design, and more.

One of the most captivating sessions was about the Social Movement Iceberg model, presented by Mrs. Aeumporn Loypradit (aka Ajarn Nui), director of Social Entrepreneurship department at Arsom Silp Institute of the Arts. This session highlighted that the global issues we face today, such as global warming, deforestation, inequality, the COVID-19 pandemic, war, unemployment, lack of livelihood, ineffective policies, flooding, and more, are merely the visible tip of an iceberg. Below the surface lies the way of life and societal patterns, followed by the structures and systems we live within (socialism, capitalism, etc.). At the core of it all is a mindset driven by greed, forming the mental model. To address these pressing challenges, we must adopt a new paradigm, and that paradigm is the Sufficiency Economy.

This program extends beyond our time together in Thailand. Together, we have initiated discussions about continued collaboration upon returning home. VCIL Community and Mab Ueang Agri-Nature Center are exploring the possibility of further training in Vietnam, aimed at capacity building and supporting individuals during their own projects. Inspired by the Arsom Silp Institute of the Arts, one participant is motivated to establish a similar initiative in Vietnam. Participants with their own lands plan to apply the knowledge gained, particularly in soil management, water system management, and landscape design, with support from Mab Ueang experts. Some participants are in the process of creating a book documenting everyone's learning journey, serving as a valuable resource for those interested in learning about the Sufficiency Economy. Many participants are also forming connections and collaborations for future endeavors. Beyond mere projects, these initiatives are deepening and strengthening the relationship between Thailand and Vietnam, while also expanding the network of the Sufficiency Economy.

This training program represents a significant milestone for the VCIL community and its network in advocating for a paradigm shift towards Wellbeing and Sustainable Development. The success of this program is attributed to the volunteers from Pudalay Mahavijalaya school (รร. ปูทะเลย์มหาวิชชาลัย - ศูนย์การเรียนกสิกรรมธรรมชาติมาบเอื้อง), the dedicated individuals at Mab Ueang Agri-Nature Center, and the support from the Agri-Nature Network who work tirelessly to design and facilitate such a holistic and invaluable program for us. This program has been successful thanks to all the participants who brought their authenticity, uniqueness, curiosity, and good intention to build a better world. As we move forward, we anticipate greater cooperation and collaboration among us to collectively contribute to cooling the earth and creating a sustainable future together."