Enhancing Agricultural Capacities through “Farmer Field Schools” in Northern Raqqa

For years, the agricultural sector in northern Raqqa has suffered from the impact of ongoing conflict, resulting in the deterioration of agricultural systems, destruction of infrastructure, and limited access to modern farming technologies. These conditions have left agricultural cooperatives and small-scale farmers increasingly vulnerable to challenges.

Technical Capacity-Building Project

In response to these challenges, DAN Relief and Development launched a project aimed at strengthening the skills of agricultural cooperative members through the establishment of “Farmer Field Schools.” The project is being implemented in Yarmouk Farm (Khirbet Al‑Inab Cooperative) and Jarboua Village (Al‑Noor Cooperative), focusing on climate-smart agriculture techniques for vegetable production in protected environments.

The project includes creating a model environment featuring one greenhouse and 0.2 hectares of plastic tunnels at each site. These training platforms have become key hubs for exchanging knowledge and modern agricultural practices among farmers, enhancing the community’s ability to adapt to climate change.

Project Benefits and Outcomes

The project helps develop farmers’ skills in several areas, including:

Sustainable Production: Promoting climate-smart agriculture practices such as efficient irrigation systems, integrated pest management, and soil health.

Improved Productivity: Through protected agriculture techniques, farmers can increase productivity, improve crop quality, and extend the growing season.

Economic Empowerment: The project reduces farmers’ reliance on external aid, strengthens food security, and creates opportunities for diversifying income sources.

Community Collaboration and Learning: It encourages participatory learning among farmers and fosters innovation within cooperatives by transferring knowledge to the wider community.

Activities and Progress

Since the project was launched in September 2025, DAN has conducted training sessions on cooperative management and cooperative marketing. Agricultural activities have also begun: plastic greenhouses were installed in November 2025, seedlings were distributed in November in designated trays, and the irrigation network was prepared. Crops were protected from cold using white mesh and black mulch.

Future Outcomes

The project is expected to enhance agricultural communities’ capacity to face climate change challenges and improve resilience to future climate-related shocks. It also contributes to building a sustainable farming model in conflict-affected areas, strengthening food security and economic stability in the region.