As part of the Social Employment Fund (SEF), the Economic Development Partnership convenes the Social Employment Network (SEN), a community of practice that connects Strategic Implementing Partners (SIPs) and supports collaborative learning. To extend this learning beyond the network, the SEN hosts a series of webinars designed to showcase the depth of expertise within SIPs and highlight the critical role civil society plays in shaping public employment. These sessions not only amplify SIP voices but also help reframe how Public Employment Programmes (PEPs) are understood, demonstrating that they are not just about job creation, but also about building community assets, strengthening local ecosystems, and drawing on the innovation and lived experience of civil society organisations.

The fifth SEN webinar focused on aquaponics, an innovative farming method that combines aquaculture (fish farming) with hydroponics (soil-free plant cultivation) in a closed-loop system. The session highlighted the environmental benefits of aquaponics, such as reduced water use, minimal soil degradation, and the elimination of synthetic fertilizers, alongside its economic potential to generate diverse income streams and maximize yields in small spaces. Socially, aquaponics can improve food security, provide access to fresh produce, and empower communities through local food production and entrepreneurship. Practical tips were shared on different aquaponic models, including deep-water culture, nutrient film technique, and medium bed design. See more on aquaponics here.