The New Seed Local Development Project is an example of social transformation (+ Photos)

Camagüey, September 22. – July 26, 2022, marked the official birth of the community project “The New Seed,” a local development initiative in Santa Cruz del Sur that has radically transformed the cultural and educational life of Consejo Sur, in the Jacinto González community. What began as a shared dream between educators, local authorities, and residents has now consolidated itself as a space for comprehensive education, where values, popular knowledge, and citizen participation converge.

The genesis of the project dates back to the urgent need for an educational and cultural center that would radiate a sense of belonging and offer educational alternatives to a community marked by social vulnerability.

“We didn't have a school located in the council, beyond the daycare center. The environment demanded something more, something that would help transform the students' attitudes and reaffirm values,” explained Diosvek Pedroso, president of the José Martí Brigade in the municipality and one of the main promoters of the project.

Taking advantage of a deteriorated building, formerly a school damaged by a cyclone, and with the support of the Ministry of Education, one million pesos were allocated for its rehabilitation. Before having a physical location, the first actions took place in Las Llanas Park, where creative activities began to positively impact the community.

Since its inception, "The New Seed" has brought together a broad network of stakeholders: from empirical practitioners (experts in fishing, weaving, and crafts) to librarians, art instructors, and physical education specialists. Interdisciplinarity has been key in building a program that includes guitar, ceramics, yarey, and handicraft workshops, as well as recreational activities outside of school hours. The "Educate Your Child" program was incorporated from the early stages, even before the rehabilitation of the building, demonstrating the collective commitment to offering educational alternatives in a context marked by dysfunctional homes and other social problems.

The impact of the project has been palpable. The students show greater sociability, courtesy, and active participation in group dynamics.

“Their interaction has improved significantly. They now share, socialize, and respect each other more,” he added.

Institutional recognition has also arrived: "The New Seed" has been selected to participate in the 2025 International Congress of Pedagogy and in the national workshop on experiences of the José Martí Brigade of Art Instructors.

Currently, the team is organizing new rotations for the school year, adapting to the intake of students from different levels. Although the majority of participants come from the Jacinto González community, creative groups such as "The Beehive Love Rays" are also part of the group, providing support in stage productions and other artistic expressions.

The project continues to move forward, with the hope of soon having audio equipment, considered by its organizers to be the "main heart" of any cultural initiative. Meanwhile, "La Nueva Semilla" continues to sprout in every corner of the community, cultivating knowledge, affection, and possibilities. As its protagonists state: “We haven't achieved everything, but every step we take is a step forward.” (Daniela Álvarez Fernández/TV Camagüey) (Taken from TV Camagüey)