Pacific Garden is an NPO that supports sustainable community development in the Solomon Islands in the South Pacific. Its main activities are building people (a vocational training school), building products (a permaculture center) and building places (a parlor), with bases in the Solomon Islands and in Japan (Okinawa).
The Solomon Islands experienced an ethnic conflict in the past. The organization focuses on the strength of people who live on a foundation of self-sufficiency and help one another, and on the potential of resources lying dormant in the region, aiming to turn them into something that can be put to use. Its three policies are to energize communication, to care for the environment, and to be a good partner.
The permaculture center of APSD, its base of activity, was established in Fiu Village, Malaita Province, as a stepping stone for recovery from the conflict. More than 300 students now study there, and courses in carpentry, plumbing, machinery and electricity were added from 2014. It is reportedly highly regarded in the Solomon Islands and abroad, and receives support from government agencies in Australia, New Zealand and the EU, among others. Its history also notes that in 2015 it was awarded the Solomon Medal by the Solomon Islands government for its environmental conservation work.
Key points
- Supports a vocational training school and permaculture center, starting from conflict recovery
- More than 300 students study there, with courses such as carpentry, plumbing, machinery and electricity
- Awarded the Solomon Medal by the Solomon Islands government in 2015 for environmental conservation
Why this organization's work stands out
Rather than being bound by the image of a "developing country," it learns from the spirit of mutual help and the strength of local people as it pursues development. Combining human resource development with the building of small-scale industries is also a useful reference.
APSD Solomon is now said to run independently, which suggests a history of respecting local ownership. With a base in Okinawa, it also engages in international exchange linking Japan and the Solomon Islands.
Editor's comment
I found the view that hints for the future of society can be found in life on the southern islands striking. It offers a fresh way of looking at international cooperation.
More details on its activities are on the official website. Please take a look.