RANGOON — Famed civil society organization Free Funeral Services Society (FFSS) announced that it will expand its mandate to provide trainings in organic farming in an effort to improve food quality in Burma.
Myint Myint Khin Pe, co-founder of FFSS, told The Irrawaddy that the organization will open an institute to provide trainings in agricultural practices. The workshops are expected to begin later this year.
Founded in 2001, FFSS is based in Rangoon and was originally established to provide funeral services free of charge to the poor. The organization is also known for its education initiatives, waste collection and free health care services offered through its affiliate, the Thukha Charity Clinic.
“Many food products in our country are harmful to our health. Even at our Thukha Clinic, the number of patients is increasing because of those unhygienic foods. We would like to do this to be able to produce chemical free and hygienic foods and thus promote public health,” Myint Myint Khin Pe said.
She said the organic farming institute will be established on 17 acres of land in Pegu Division, 13 acres of which were given to the organization by a donor. FFSS will also arrange accommodation for those who must travel long distances to study at the institute.
FFSS announced through social media that they hope to attract many volunteers through the new institute and encourage philanthropy among youth.
