Dutch horticulture knowledge transfer to Ukrainian veterans in the Netherlands
Andriy Pugach is a Ukrainian berry grower and a wounded defender, during his rehabilitation in the Netherlands learns about berry production
Before full-scale invasion Andriy Pugach used to grow strawberries, raspberries and blackberries in his 4 ha garden in Odesa region, South of Ukraine. He supplied his produce to the local market in Odesa.
In 2022 Andriy Pugach joined the defense forces Ukraine and since then has been protecting Ukraine from occupants.
After he was wounded in 2023 Andriy was sent to the Netherlands for treatment and rehabilitation with support from the Netherlands For Ukraine Foundation .
As soon as health allowed Andriy for the short trips, he was eager to visit berries farms and greenhouses in the Netherlands to learn Dutch experience in berry growing.
Together with the Dutch consultant Jan Robben a visit of Andriy Pugach to Fossa Eugenia, Brookberries Venlo and Delft gardening center was organized.
As a small farmer from Ukrainian village Andriy has never considered the possibility to visit the Netherlands for berry growing trip. As a soldier of Ukrainian army Andriy not only got his treatment in the Netherlands but also accomplished his dream to visit the Dutch berry growers and learn from them.
Short after the farm visits Andriy had to return to Ukraine and continue his service. We truly hope he will soon be able to return to his berry business and stay in touch with his new friends from the Netherlands.
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Lean more about the project Agricultural study tours for Ukrainian Veterans in the Netherlands aimed at rehabilitation and agricultural knowledge transfer in the Netherlands for further reintegration of the veterans in Ukraine.
In case you would like to take part in the project and invite the veterans to your farm or production facility, please contact Kateryna Volianska greenvolia@gmail.com.