THE GENERATIONAL RELEASE IN THE COFFEE SECTOR: THE EXPERIENCE OF COFFEE COURSES FOR CHILDREN IN CHOCAMÁN, VERACRUZ, MEXICO

Abstract

The coffee sector in Mexico has complex problem, such as low prices,
phytosanitary problems, climate change and low productivity, as well
as migration, aging and low level of schooling of producers. The
objective of this proyect is to contribute to the education and training
of the new generations of coffee producers in Veracruz, through
the implementation of comprehensive sustainable coffee courses
aimed at children. During the years 2009 to 2017, eight courses were
given, with the participation of 415 children from coffee-growing
municipalities in the center of Veracruz, Puebla and Oaxaca. The
event takes place in the factory of the organization Catuai Amarillo
SSS in the Municipality of Chocamán, Veracruz, in an effort of interinstitutional
collaboration involving 40 instructors among academics,
professionals, companies, consultants, technicians and field staff. The
course takes place during 12 days during the summer holidays. This
experiential education experience is consolidated as an educational
option with feasibility for its implementation in other municipalities
and coffee regions of Veracruz and Mexico.