”Tosa, Nature School” is a organic farming school in Tosa-cho, Tosa-gun. This is the first school in Japan to teach about the techniques used in organic farming. The school is operated jointly by Kochi Prefecture and a local NPO.
The curriculum is for 1 year. Classes include an overview of organic farming methods, characteristics of Japanese soil, information about microbes and pests, as well as classes about agricultural management such as laws and distribution systems. Since it deals with agriculture, the curriculum is not only seminars, and students get hands on experience about the basics of soil making and compost making, cultivation of organic vegetables, sales training, etc. The program is set up so students can learn through experience.
Instructors are leaders who are active on the front lines in areas such as organic farming and environmental farming technical staff. Students immerse themselves in organic farming for one year.
Towards shared goals and aspirations
Tosa Nature School works with local governments and public corporations associated with agriculture to support farming. For instance, for those who have spent a whole year studying but don’t have the place or occasion to actually practice organic farming.
To avoid such situations, they provide support to secure land for farming. In order to blend in smoothly with the community after beginning agricultural activities, the curriculum includes participation in local festivals to promote interaction with the community.
Tosa Nature School has one requirement as an admission. That is to have ”goals and aspirations” that can be shared.
Wanting to revitalize the beauty of Japan through organic farming. Wanting to leave a beautiful earth for future generations. Those with such aspirations gather at Tosa Nature School.
