MSc RPD Thesis Defence: Sampoorna Bhattacharya

Sampoorna Bhattacharya, a Master of Science in Rural Planning and Development student, will defend their thesis research titled “Heritage-led Planning for Rural Community Resilience: Terrace Landscapes in Peru”. A brief description of their thesis research is listed below: 

This exploratory study contributes to the understanding of how rural heritage conservation impacts local community development. In particular, this research considers how the conservation of terraces in the Nor-Yauyos-Cochas landscape reserve and the Potato Park in Peru contributes to community resiliency. 

This research employs the frameworks of grounded theory, community based participatory research, resiliency, and heritage. Research was conducted entirely online due to COVID-19 and employs three methods: Semi-Structured Key Informant Interviews; Participatory Video; and Collaborative GIS Mapping. The researcher acknowledges her position as a non-Peruvian and non-Spanish speaker and ensured that the research was guided by leaders from Peruvian organizations: The International Potato Centre (CIP) and Association ANDES. 

Research results indicate that heritage in rural Andean communities in Peru is defined by strong social relationships which are sustained over generations. Results corroborate that terraces contribute to community resilience through increased social bonds, closeness with the environment and economic stability. 

Members of the examination committee will include: Prof. Leith Deacon (advisor, SEDRD), Prof. Silvia Sarapura (Graduate Faculty, SEDRD), Dr. Stef de Haan (International Potato Center), and Prof. Ryan Gibson will serve as chair.  The thesis is open to the public and instructions for joining the video conference can be requested from rpd@uoguelph.ca.