The IEF has reflected on a successful week of training delivered through the Global Egg School in the Wawee Valley, Northern Thailand aimed at strengthening egg farming knowledge and creating long-term economic opportunities for hilltribe communities.
Hosted by Hilltribe Organics and delivered in partnership with Lohmann Breeders, the programme brought together both existing contract farmers and new participants. Around 90% of the farmers involved are women, highlighting the important role egg farming plays in supporting female entrepreneurship and rural livelihoods.
The training programme focused on key technical areas including biosecurity, animal husbandry, and poultry nutrition, helping farmers strengthen practical skills and build confidence in managing productive and sustainable egg farms. Sessions also included “train the trainer” elements, ensuring that knowledge gained during the programme can continue to be shared throughout the community.
Alongside the training sessions, the IEF team and Lohmann trainers Eduardo Bernardi and Dr. Vichian Srithayarat conducted visits to Hilltribe Organics’ egg packing station, feed mill, and local farms, gaining valuable insight into local farming conditions. These on-the-ground visits helped ensure the training and technical guidance were tailored to the realities of egg farming in the Wawee Valley.
The introduction of contract egg farming in the region has already helped provide a reliable source of income and economic stability for hilltribe families, many of whom previously faced limited employment opportunities.
Reflecting on the impact of the programme, Cassy Price, CEO of the IEF, said:
“We are honoured to support the egg famers of the Wawee Valley by sharing egg production knowledge and skills through our Global Egg School Programme with Lohmann Breeders. Egg farming plays a vital role in promoting economic independence, especially for the women and rural households, providing a steady and reliable source of income. Furthermore, we witness how egg farming in the Wawee Valley has strengthened the local economy and created employment opportunities along the value chain. Contract egg farming in this region is more than just agricultural production; it is a practical and sustainable tool for economic empowerment, poverty reduction, and long-term financial independence.”
IEF extended its thanks to Eduardo Bernardi and Dr. Vichian Srithayarat for creating an open and collaborative learning environment rooted in real farming conditions, and to Lohmann Breeders for their continued commitment to education and knowledge sharing.
The Foundation also expressed its gratitude to Hilltribe Organics for hosting the programme and for its ongoing dedication to supporting hilltribe communities.
Together, the partners are helping farmers in the Wawee Valley build skills, resilience and long-term livelihoods, strengthening families and contributing to sustainable economic progress across the region.
