The Apiary School: Sowing the Seeds for Seven New Rural Production Units

The educational and productive project of The Sodhi Foundation is transforming the Northeastern region of Antioquia, driving sustainability and community empowerment through beekeeping.

The Apiary School spearheaded by The Sodhi Foundation has achieved a significant milestone in its mission to link education, sustainability, and rural development. We recently celebrated the successful culmination of an intensive training cycle that led to the formal establishment of seven new rural production units in the municipalities of Remedios (Veredas San Mateo, Chorrolindo, Ocasito, Camelias, Bella Vista, and La Cruz/La Honda) and Vegachí (El Tigre district).

Technical Training for Sustainability

The essence of the Apiary School lies in offering deep, practical technical training. Participating farmers have progressed from initial curiosity to a comprehensive mastery of beekeeping techniques, including advanced protocols such as queen rearing. Sessions covered theoretical methods (like Dolittle and Marie) and the essential practice of grafting (Traslarve), ensuring queen production aligns with the real needs of their future hives.

Through the analysis of “hypothetical hives,” participants developed the ability to diagnose problems and apply effective solutions in their apiaries. This practical focus not only imparts knowledge but also builds autonomy and confidence for managing production.

Generating Enterprises and Opportunities

The most significant impact of this project is reflected in the participants’ stories. Many have not only gained knowledge but now hold a vision of creating a business and involving their families.

“Thanks to the training from The Sodhi Foundation, we can now say we can have our own cultivation, manage it, harvest, and we know how to solve problems in the apiary. Now I’m interested, I’ve learned a lot, and I want to create a business, involve my family, and thanks to the foundation, it’s the best.” — Participant Testimonial.

The Sodhi Foundation remains committed to processes that guarantee environmental conservation, quality technical training, and the generation of sustainable employment opportunities for communities in the region. This is a firm step towards the comprehensive development of Northeastern Antioquia.