Gwanak-gu to launch advanced training for community gardeners

Gwanak-gu is advancing its resident-led garden management model, the ‘Gwanak Healing Gardener’ project, by launching an advanced training course this September. The initiative aims to establish a virtuous cycle of learning, activity, and expansion by cultivating community garden leaders who can actively maintain local green spaces.

Following the success of previous cohorts, the new advanced course will consist of 13 sessions held between September 4 and November 21. The curriculum includes professional theory and practical training in areas such as soil management, pruning principles, pest control, and winter garden maintenance. The program will take place at locations including the Ganggamchan Urban Agriculture Center, the wind path forest near Naksongdae Park, and the Nangok Saengsaeng Garden.

Recruitment for the 30 available spots begins on the 19th via a first-come, first-served basis, targeting graduates from the first three basic courses. Participants are required to commit to at least 30 hours of volunteer work or garden-related events. District Mayor Park Jun-hee stated that the program serves as a model for participatory administration, aiming to transform Gwanak-gu into a healing and garden-centric city.