In total, the annual program includes more than 40 courses - around 1.700 hours of training - throughout the island.
The 24 students of the palm basketry course taught by FEDAC and held at the Gran Canaria Sur Primary School received their diplomas today after completing the 30 hours taught by artisan María Belén Gutiérrez Vélez. The course, which is part of FEDAC's training program, allowed teachers from the south of the island to learn about one of the most representative traditional techniques of Gran Canaria's cultural heritage.
"This type of training, especially when framed within educational contexts such as CEPs, is essential to ensuring the transmission of knowledge and fostering vocations," said the councilor for the area, Minerva Alonso. "At the Council, we understand training as a tool for establishing roots and innovating at the same time. Craftsmanship can and should have a future," she added.
Kevin Pérez, coordinator of the Ministry of Economic Development, attended the diploma presentation on behalf of the island's institution. Regarding the course, it is worth highlighting that it is part of the extensive training program that FEDAC is developing throughout the year: By 2025, the projected number of 42 craft courses is expected, with a total of 1.731 hours and a total investment of €70.000.
In collaboration with local governments, 20 courses (840 hours) are offered with a budget of €38.400. These are in addition to courses organized in conjunction with other public institutions (5 courses), courses taught in artisan workshops (6 courses), and courses taught at the Gran Canaria School of Art and Design (9 courses), which cover disciplines such as ceramics, textiles, design, and contemporary creation.
FEDAC also maintains its own program at its "La Sala" space in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, and a series of courses that streamline training activities across the island.
“The Council's commitment to crafts is not mere tokenism,” Alonso added. “We invest in training, promotion, the revival of trades, and the modernization of the sector. Because we believe in the value of knowledge that passes from one person to another, and that it has enormous economic, cultural, and social potential.”
The courses, which are free for participants, are designed for both those with prior knowledge and those just starting out in these trades. Throughout 2025, courses related to traditional techniques such as pottery, weaving, hat making, palm and cane basketry, and leatherwork, among others, will also be taught.
