The main objective of the initiative is to foster healthy lifestyle habits among Primary Education students, encourage careful eating, and transmit the value of local agriculture and markets to new generations. This year, producers will distribute reusable bags designed with students' drawings starting from October 13th at the markets.
The project, now in its fourth consecutive year, will combine theoretical-practical workshops, visits to local and regional producers, and market activities throughout the academic year. Present at the launch were Leire Artola, Mayor of Beasain, Rosa Aurkia, the Council's environmental technician, Elena Calvillo Arteaga and Maite Arrospide Arrospide from Osakidetza, Josetxo Mendia, a market producer, and representatives from the town's educational centers.
Mayor Leire Artola emphasized the importance of the project's continuity, stating, "we are not just talking about health; we are talking about our roots, our land, and the work of local producers in a broad sense." Environmental technician Rosa Aurkia added that "education and the environment go hand in hand in this initiative," and that students need to learn where food comes from and the impact of consuming local products.
Health professionals Elena Calvillo Arteaga and Maite Arrospide Arrospide from Osakidetza explained that the workshops aim to promote healthy eating among 6th-grade students and to collaborate with other community stakeholders. The workshops, each two hours long, cover the psychological aspects of nutrition, the healthy plate method, reading product labels, and reflection on body diversity, concluding with a healthy breakfast made with local products.
Josetxo Mendia, a vegetable producer (Altzibar baserria, Zegama), highlighted the importance of students leaving the classroom to visit farms and gardens to see firsthand how the land is cultivated and how food grows. Students will undertake four main visits: to Artzabaltza farm (organic bread), the Gipuzkoa Beekeepers Association (the world of bees), Oñatibi Txiki farm (the world of apples), and Altzibar farm (organic vegetable management).
In the spring, students will visit the local market to work on the UN's Sustainable Development Goals, and in May and June, 5th-grade students will also attend the market as preparation for the following academic year. The Beasain City Council will again offer discount vouchers to encourage the purchase of local and seasonal products, with designs created by 4th-grade students.
