In a world that overuses resources to near exhaustion, there is a need for a new kind of thinking and planning for our generation and those that follow. Bedouin communities in the Negev have been using innovative techniques for sustainable development for centuries. One such skill is permaculture, advancing life through small-scale natural ecosystems. We invite you to immerse yourself in a journey that will both challenge you personally and leave you with immeasurable practical skills. The desert can appear to be empty, yet there is much to discover from the people who call it home. Learning the simplicity that is found within natural patterns and how to design selfsufficient and sustainable systems is at the heart of this course. It is hosted by the Bedouin themselves. Designing and implementing new collective knowledge with the members of the Qasr A Sir community will foster growth for each participant, as we seek to engage in practical and sustainable solutions. 
 
This program includes: 
 
* Ancient Bedouin way of life, culture and indigenous knowledge 
* Permaculture 
* Eco building techniques 
* Sustainable solutions, such as composting toilets, grey water systems, and water harvesting 
* Permaculture at the community level 
* Intensive Arabic language studies 
* Local History and understanding current politics in the Negev.
 
In today's 21st century State of Israel the challenge is to build a sustainable social and ecological future ensuring the enfranchisement of all people, cultures and religious understandings in an effort to bridge the many schisms developed during the Age of Nationalism. The idea is to establish a blueprint for a better collective common future. 
 
The PermaNegev five-month course of study includes an investigation of the two cultures forming the backdrop upon which Negev Bedouin culture exists - the Jewish and the Arab. We will engage in the Jewish connection to the Land of Israel, while studying Middle Eastern history and the Arab role there over the past 1400 years, with a specific emphasis on Bedouin life in the Negev past and present as well as their language. 
 
The vibrant community of Qasr A Sir is situated in the Israel's Negev Desert on the historical lands of the El Hawashla tribe that consists of roughly 3,500 members. Although recognized as a Bedouin village for more than 10 years development has yet to take place; the entire community is residing in temporary housings with no sewage, electricity and permanent running water. The members of the community all are yearning for a better future of equity, prosperity, and sustainability.
 

FAQ PermaNegev

What is the PermaNegev?

The course is a five month intensive permaculture and sustainability program including intensive Arabic lessons, Middle Eastern studies, field trips in the Negev and much more. The course is held at the Eco khan of the Bedouin village of Qasr A Sir where the participants will engage in the everyday life of the community through implementation of various permaculture projects and through practicing spoken Arabic. The program is a unique collaboration of Bustan, an NGO working in the Bedouin community for more than a decade, academics, and the members of Qasr A Sir.

Our program is a combination of theoretical studies in class as well as hands on training in the Eco khan, the community and other projects of Bustan. For more information on Bustan please visit our website. The course includes a Permaculture Design certificate (72hr) and covers more advanced subjects in Permaculture. Field trips to the Bedouin communities and in Israel are integrated in the program.

Hands on experience in:

* Designing and implementing sustainable projects in the community with local members.

* Ecobuilding with mud, lightstraw, and super adobe.

* Organic gardening.

* Water harnessing and recycling.

The course is open to individuals from all over the world and is intended ?€“ besides the curriculum mentioned - to offer a rare glimpse into the Bedouin culture both past and present. They also have a chance to make a change and leave something behind that can benefit the community. We aspire that the participants be active, critical and creative and help us adjust the curriculum to meet their wants and needs. The theoretical as well as practical knowledge acquired during the program will allow the participants to engage in broad activities and professions thereafter. The program aims to foster an atmosphere of cultural diversity, reconciliation and self-exploration. We hope that at the end of the program the experience, emotions, friendships will help you become more mindful and conscious individuals advancing the spirit of permaculture and peace wherever you go.

 
Practical information

* The course and accommodations will take place at the Eco khan of Qasr A-Sir, a Bedouin village next to Dimona. See pictures in here.

* All meals will be supported by a coop of women caterers from the village.

* The program including Arabic and other studies will be taught in English.

* The itinerary is based on weeks of 5 days where the weekends are free for advancing individual projects, rest or travel in Israel.

* The staff includes academics, Bustan staff, permaculture instructors and a social guide.

* The Eco khan is still in stages of construction so part of the program will also be focused on improving the students' immediate surroundings.

Cost and start date

Cost will be announced shortly. Program is starting at the 7th of February and ending at 7th of July 2012.