School of Sustainable Development

Update on the April ‘26 School

April 15th, 2026

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Here are some exciting developments about the upcoming April ‘26 School of Sustainable Development in Kona.

School of Sustainable Development – YWAM UofN Kona

Korean Natural Farming (KNF)

A little backstory – Korean Natural Farming (KNF) is a well-developed approach to growing abundant, healthy food while restoring life to the ecosystem. Farmers and gardeners around the world use KNF to reduce dependence on pesticides and synthetic fertilizers and to work more closely with the processes designed into God’s creation.

Chris Trump

We are pleased to announce that the Western world’s foremost expert on KNF, Chris Trump, will offer in-depth training on KNF as part of the SSD. Chris is a wonderfully clear, engaging teacher. Come to benefit from his rich, experience-based knowledge and the deep biblical worldview that underlies his life’s work and teaching.

A week with Chris is a rare opportunity to gain practical, field-tested skills from a master of his craft—and to begin a journey into the empowering world of Korean Natural Farming. Apply what you learn in your own garden bed during the school.

ECHO

We’re also excited to welcome back to Kona outstanding teaching from ECHO, one of the world’s leading organisations focused on training small-holder farmers.

Globally, there are over 500 million smallholder farm families. Many of these live with ongoing food insecurity and poverty. Join us in April to learn from teachers who bring deep commitment and extensive international experience to bear on this issue. Gain practical knowledge and skills (e.g., biogas, dehydration, rocket stoves, and basic small engine repair).

Connect with a global community of Christians who are putting faith and skills to work where it counts.

From ECHO’s website:

“…We go out into the world to provide training and resources that empower small-scale farming families to thrive… We believe that as active participants in the Great Commission and stewards of great agricultural knowledge, it is our duty to grow and make disciples.”

Water for Life

Contaminated water and poor sanitation affect millions worldwide, driving preventable disease, child mortality, lost education and income, and trapping entire communities in cycles of poor health and poverty.

One of the highlights of this SSD will be two weeks with highly experienced international teachers from Water for Life. This is your opportunity to gain hands-on skills by building water storage and filtration solutions alongside other life-saving water and hygiene technologies.

You’ll learn how to train others and take a role in making a life-changing difference.

School of Sustainable Development

The school will cover many subjects (aquaponics, hydroponics, plant propagation, animal care, etc.).

Come and grow as active ambassadors of Christ. Engage in life-impacting study that serves people struggling to feed their families or access clean drinking water— be inspired and equipped to bring lasting hope and practical change where it’s needed most.

See the website for more info:

School of Sustainable Development – YWAM UofN Kona

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