Martino Ozza on Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems In Cuba

The New School prides itself as a home to unique and groundbreaking ideas. This is especially facilitated by its student body. In 2018, Martino Ozza, now an alumnus of the MA in International Affairs program, pursued a research project that assessed the concept of the Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System (GIAHS) and determined if this system is applicable in a Cuban context.

According to the United Nations Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO), a GIAHS is an agricultural system which is globally remarkable in biological diversity and a heritage landscape.

To complete this project, Ozza performed secondary research and fieldwork in New York and Cuba. Since the study focused on a topic that is complex and multidimensional, it was essential for Ozzo to gather both quantitative and qualitative data as well as to maintain a perspective to balance and merge an international approach with local communities’ needs and perceptions. Data collection included interviews to the GIAHS program’s FAO specialists, two trips to Cuba to meet agroecologists and specialists in local agriculture programs in Havana and Pinar del Rio, employment of Rapid Rural Appraisal techniques, and compilation of first-hand feedback from the local communities.

Reflecting on his research, Ozzo says, “Overall, collecting primary data and working with a real client was a delightful and enriching journey. I recommend to everybody within the International Affairs program to engage in the Practicum in International Affairs. It represents a unique experience  that allows students to finally put into practice skills and academic education.”

In 2018, Ozzo was awarded for Outstanding Practicum in International Affairs based on his research, which combined traditional farming methods and agricultural biodiversity.

Source: The New Context