On March 18th, a training course on "Cultivation, Processing, Harvesting, and Market Formation of High-Value Herbs and Wild Useful Plants" took place in Zoragh. The course was initiated within the framework of "Living Landscapes for Market Development in Armenia" (LILA) project. Participants were representatives of project beneficiary organizations involved in wild plant collection and processing, with the aim of deepening their professional skills.
Nune Sarukhanyan, Director of "Green Learning Center" NGO and course instructor, introduced participants to wild plant collection techniques, processing technologies, post-harvest process organization, plant preservation, packaging, as well as market formation and advertising campaign organization characteristics through theoretical and practical exercises.
Mariam Yeganyan, a project beneficiary from Lori Region who produces "Loreni" botanical teas, also participated in the course. The "Loreni" selection represents teas prepared from wild harvests of the Lori natural landscape. "This is already the fourth time I've participated in 'Green Path' course. Each time, I am equipped with new knowledge. It was very interesting to get acquainted with our colleagues, hear about their experiences, and compare the flavor and aromatic characteristics of wild plants growing in our territories. During the course, we became familiar with certain subtleties of wild plants that we had not previously considered. The course is directly connected to our activities, and therefore such courses and experience exchange programs are of great importance. The knowledge gained from the course will be used to promote business sustainability and market higher-quality products," Mariam Yeganyan noted.
Participants were involved in interactive games aimed at teaching plant growth study techniques and key business development mechanisms.
Mariam Yeganyan also emphasized the importance of conducting such courses in the regions: "Through these courses, we acquire new partnership connections and new knowledge about wild plant drying, packaging, and preservation. I would like such courses to be organized in our villages as well, so we can study nature on-site."
At the course's conclusion, participants received books authored by Nune Sarukhanyan, which will help them in their professional activities.
"Living Landscapes for Market Development in Armenia" (LILA) project is funded by the Swiss Government through the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) and implemented by the WWF Caucasus and Armenia offices, in collaboration with "Strategic Development Agency" (SDA) NGO.
March 28, 2025 at 16:26