News
“Peace from Food” from the tables of ARI’s graduates Vol. 3
Healing from the Soil Have you ever thought about what it is like to be a refugee? Much to my surprise I found it can be sheer boredom. I learned this from ARI graduates in Sri Lanka, who, during their civil war, had to flee their homes and lived in refugee camps for some time. At breakfast, they lined up for food. At supper they lined up for food. The rest of the day they just sat. No work. No TV or radio. Nothing. There was absolutely nothing to do. … Read more
🌿 Mini Eco‑Tour on Campus at ARI (Held Every Other Fourth Saturday)
At ARI, we hold a Mini Eco‑Tour on Campus every other month, always on the fourth Saturday. During the tour, program participants walk around campus discussing and learning about topics such as “sustainable agriculture and life” and “why learning about rural development around the world is important.” 1. Campus Tour (11:00 –) Program participants visited the organic farm, livestock areas, and compost facilities where rural community leaders from around the world live and farm. It was a 90‑minute experience strolling through fields, livestocks, and natural cycles—an intuitive way to connect with … Read more
Peace from Food Donation Campaign
This Summer, Join ARI’s “Peace from Food” Donation CampaignThe Asian Rural Institute (ARI) is holding its summer donation campaign under the theme “Peace from Food.” We warmly invite your support and participation.ARI is a training ground for rural leaders from Asia and Africa, equipping them to serve their communities through sustainable agriculture and grassroots development. Rooted in the belief that “the more you cultivate, the more people and soil flourish,” ARI trains leaders who learn through food—developing not just farming techniques but also community resilience, by respecting local resources and … Read more
【7/19 Chocotto Farm & Forest Report】
Under the summer sun, we held a Chocotto Farm & Forest Day! This time, parents and children from local area enjoyed forest exploration and harvesting summer vegetables—hands-on moments filled with nature and discovery. Even in the heat, everyone worked together with smiles, bringing energy to the fields and the forest. At lunchtime, we had fun with nagashi somen (flowing noodles!) and shared a meal featuring fresh veggies from the ARI farm. It was a heartwarming day of connection—where small lives turn into big relationships. Next one will be held on … Read more
“Peace from Food” from the tables of ARI’s graduates Vol. 2
Two Bags of Food A big bag brimming with fresh vegetables. Another bag filled with flour, grains, salt, sugar, and spices. It’s a hefty amount, good for a week or two. Every month 35 families gather at the SEEDS India compound, not just to receive this food donation, but to greet each other and talk over tea and snacks. With all those kids laughing and playing, the atmosphere is super bustling. SEEDS India is a local NGO started by ARI Graduate, Thomas Mathew. They have numerous programs to help folks … Read more
Exploring Localization and Community Resilience at ARI
This week, ARI welcomed Mr. Yoji Kamata as a guest lecturer to lead a session on localization and the value of community. In the class, ARI participants reflected on the positive aspects of traditional cultures and the challenges that often accompany modern development, including environmental damage, weakened local economies, and the erosion of family and cultural ties. The session also highlighted the downsides of economic globalization, such as increasing insecurity, climate impact, and the waste of natural resources. Using the metaphor of a “leaking bucket,” Mr. Kamata explained how local … Read more
“Peace from Food” from the tables of ARI’s graduates Vol. 1 – an Introduction
Peace from food. This is the theme of our summer fundraising campaign for ARI, and I was asked to share with you some things we can learn about it from ARI’s graduates. By the way, I am Steven Cutting, the coordinator for Graduate Outreach, which means I frequently communicate with our graduates. I talk to them almost every day, as a matter of fact. So, I am probably the best person to assign this task. But…Peace from food. Peace from food. What does this truly mean? No peace from no … Read more
A Day Immersed in Traditional Japanese Culture
A community event to experience Japanese culture was held at ARI!Participants dressed in yukata and enjoyed various stations featuring traditional Japanese activities such as origami, tea ceremony, ayatori, and sushi rolling. There was also a live shamisen performance, and the event ended on a warm note with everyone dancing the bon odori together.It was truly impressive to see participants from diverse backgrounds earnestly learning about Japanese culture while deepening their connections. Through opportunities like this, understanding and respect for different cultures are fostered, making it a valuable experience for all … Read more
