The 3rd Transnational Project Meeting (TPM) of the EcoFarms4Prisons project took place on May 20–21, 2025, in Antalya, Türkiye. The meeting brought together 10 participants from Germany, Italy, Portugal, and Türkiye, as well as two representatives from the Institution Workhouse Directorate in Ankara (one a judge and the other an agricultural engineer).
The first day was dedicated to field visits, offering practical insight into agricultural and rehabilitation activities in two correctional facilities. The group visited the Elmalı Open Penal Institution, where large-scale wheat, apple, and vegetable cultivation is carried out with the involvement of inmates. This was followed by a tour of the Antalya Open Penal Institution, which features greenhouse production, vocational workshops, and a sales unit for goods produced by inmates.
On the second day, participants reflected on the visits and shared insights by comparing them with practices observed in Germany and Portugal. Key discussions focused on institutional culture, staff involvement, and inmate engagement, highlighting both shared approaches and national differences that enrich the learning process.
The meeting continued with Project specific updates. Discussions included the MOC activity, trainer selection, and an update on the training agenda in Portugal. The group also reviewed the upcoming tasks related to WP4 – VET course implementation.
Before closing, participants agreed on the schedule for the next meeting and addressed several project management issues, ensuring alignment for the next phase of EcoFarms4Prisons.
The meeting fostered valuable exchanges, strengthening cooperation and mutual understanding among partners working to promote sustainable rehabilitation through agriculture.
A view from the meeting
Participants receiving their certificates of attendance
