The village of Jaffarabd was selected for this project as it is accessible to the project coordinator and the community was motivated.

A Local Wood Carving Master from Chaprot, Shenbar valley was brought to Jaffarabd, Nagar.  He is a woodwork master of making and carving traditional catering utensils: wooden spoons, forks, trays, pots, and many other traditional small woodcraft products.

Due to accessibility issues, 10 trainees were selected from Jaffarabad village who were highly motivated and had know-how in wood work. These trainees trained for two months.

Project Achievements

The initial products made during the training attracted many tourists and market visitors. Those who see the innovative wood products blending modern technical expertise and value adding methods bring a great attraction for customers. The local community has also taken great interest in observing their past culture being revitalised after almost becoming extinct.

The most interesting aspect of this project is that the Master Trainer and his trainees have received offers from local hotels, souvenir shops and tourists. In addition, the sample products have been shown to the Planning and Development office.

Challenges

It took a long time searching for the traditional equipment.  As a result a local blacksmith was commissioned to make them.

Future Plans

NDO aims to select a further 10 males to participate in wood carving training.