Urban-rural links

Our world is interconnected. Often, if not always, problems in rural areas originate in or are aggravated by activities in cities. As such, rural development cannot be sustained without supportive actions in urban areas. Over the past few years, PCD has supported like-minded urban civic groups to reflect on urban lifestyles and the inter-connectedness of rural-urban issues vis-à-vis the mainstream development model. Eco-housing, environmentally friendly consumer platforms and urban farming are some of the alternative practices explored. The Community Supported Agriculture Programme, a relatively new venture in China, has been developed to forge producer-consumer relationships based on trust and respect for the environment. Issues that are conducive to the development of alternative markets such as fair trade and a consumer movement heading toward a locally-producing and locally-consuming economy have also been explored.

Internship and facilitation opportunities for youth

PCD’s urban programmes have included efforts to develop youth facilitators and nurture an alternative network of civic groups. PCD serves as an information provider, facilitator and catalyst for change in this regard. In late 2004, a youth internship programme was launched, providing urban young people with a passion for change with opportunities to work with rural communities. A network of youth facilitators and groups has been nurtured and a supportive and complementary relationship has been developed between them and rural communities. Trainings and interactions have been organised for facilitators with different specialisations, and a reflection-based curriculum has been developed to cultivate critical and analytical sensitivity towards mainstream ideologies of commercialisation and consumerism. Progress has been slow but solid. A team of like-minded local trainers has been formed and its membership is expanding. Documentation of programme experiences for dissemination among relevant stakeholders and the wider public will be improved.

Today and beyond

In Hong Kong, Mainland China and the surrounding region, consumer and environmental movements, urban farming, fair trade, social enterprises, development education and alternative education have all been gaining momentum in recent years. The teaching of classical Chinese literature in Beijing, and the growth of Waldorf Education in Chengdu are examples of efforts that promote alternative education by learning from traditional culture, local wisdom and nature. A number of provincial level NGO platforms have emerged over the last few years enabling increasing networking among grassroot NGOs and civic groups. However, the shortage of experienced facilitators critical of the mainstream development model is expected to persist at least for some years to come.

PCD’s urban programme will continue to enhance urban-rural understanding and mutual support. More efforts will be devoted to provide platforms for children and young people to look at ways to develop sustainable lifestyles and to reconnect with food producers, the land and nature. This will be achieved by providing solid exposure to the real life of rural communities through youth internships, and alternative education activities that build links with nature and our rich cultural traditions. The CSA programme in particular will continue to explore sustainable urban living and alternative learning platforms.