Dr Shaher Abdullateef of Syrian Academic Expertise explains how Ahmad (a local farmer) applied hydroponic techniques learned in an SAE training course to produce vegetables at home—initially using simple pipes and nutrient solutions, and eventually expanding his setup into a greenhouse and selling part of his production. He stresses that local knowledge is essential for Syrian agriculture, and he calls for a shift from short-term aid to sustainable development through research, capacity building, and empowering local experts. He also highlights the creation of an Agricultural Development Centre in Northwest Syria in collaboration with the University of Sussex, which offers practical training and support to local farmers.