Project

Zikra for Popular Learning

To face social, economic and environmental challenges in Jordan, Zikra encourages citizens to drive change by reconnecting with ancestral knowledge.
Photo of three people harvesting wheat

Zikra for Popular Learning began in the small village of Ghor Al Mazra, Jordan. Today, it covers 4 regions: Amman, Al-Karak, Al-Salt and Irbid. By launching this inclusive learning project, Lama Khatieb and Rabee Zureikat help local populations reconnect with their identity, culture and ancestral know-how to find sustainable solutions to today鈥檚 problems. 

To achieve this, the association explores and collects local knowledge about managing the land and water resources, which has enabled communities to live in these regions for thousands of years. This knowledge is shared with local communities to reduce the rural-urban gap and enable citizens to reappropriate their heritage. 

Ancestral know-how for new opportunities 

Small wheat producers are often discouraged as small-scale operations aren鈥檛 financially viable. Zikra helps them highlight their expertise and sell directly to local restaurants and bakeries. The team also organises capacity-building workshops to encourage students and teachers to embrace sustainable, inclusive development. The Story of Food Experience brings together tourists, local artisans and producers to promote local foods and provide an additional source of income. 

Committed to ethical and responsible financing, Lama Khatieb and Rabee Zureikat create self-funding programmes and are always looking for new donors and partners. 

Would like to do your bit to keep this ancestral knowledge alive? 

Photo of a group of people listening to a woman
Photo of a woman teaching a man how to make a traditional Jordanian food

Project began: 04/04/2007 

Leading organisation: Zikra for Popular Learning 

The country where the team is based: Jordan 

Theme: Biodiversity, Education for Sustainable Development, Local and Indigenous Knowledge 

Sub-themes: Agriculture, Cities, Cultural diversity, Environment, Food and food security, Gender equality and women's empowerment, Health, Knowledge sharing, Poverty and inequality reduction 

Tag: #Women #Youth 

Project needs

  • Crowdfunding 
  • Equipment supply 
  • In search of financial partners 
  • Partnerships development 
  • Sponsorship/ Philanthropy 

 

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Are you excited to participate?