Executive

Executive Certificate in Organic Farming and Agroecological Innovation in Africa

Master innovative agroecological practices for sustainable, resilient and high-performing agriculture

What you will learn

Sustainable agriculture: adopt organic and agroecological practices that respect the environment
Innovation & technology: integrate innovative solutions to optimise productivity and the resilience of farming systems
Social & environmental impact: contribute to food security, natural resource preservation and local development
Executive certification: earn a recognised certificate that showcases your skills and accelerates your career

Who this program is for

Farmers, agricultural technicians and project leaders wanting to develop or convert a farm to organic agriculture.

Program description

This executive certificate gives you the keys to master innovative agroecological practices: biological soil fertility, integrated crop protection, diversified production systems, access to organic markets and agricultural entrepreneurship, through case studies and hands-on workshops.

Module 01 — Foundations and Challenges of Organic Farming in Africa

Understanding Climate Challenges and Food Security in Africa
Comparing Organic and Conventional Farming Systems
The Contribution of Organic Farming to Climate Change Resilience
The Role of Organic Farming in Preserving Natural Resources and Farming System Sustainability

Module 02 — Managing Biological Soil Fertility

Principles of Organic Farming Ecosystems
Aerobic and Anaerobic Composting Techniques
Using Green Manures, Biochar and Organic Amendments
Introduction to Soil Microbiology and Biological Fertility
Erosion Control Strategies and Improving Soil Structure

Module 03 — Integrated Protection and Managing Pests & Diseases

Identifying Major Pests, Diseases and Weeds
Biological Solutions and Integrated Pest Management Methods
On-Farm Production of Bio-inputs:
- Plant extracts
- Fermented plant teas
- Liquid biofertilisers
Creating Biodiversity Areas to Favour Natural Predators

Module 04 — Organic Production Systems and Farm Diversification

Models and Principles of Modern Agroforestry
Crop Association and Rotation for Ecological Intensification
Synergies Between Livestock and Crops:
- Making the most of organic manure
- Fodder production
Diversification Strategies for Organic Farming Systems

Module 05 — Access to Organic Markets – International Standards, Certification and Regulation

Analysis of the New European Organic Farming Regulation and Its Impact on Third Countries
Setting Up an Internal Control System (ICS) for Cooperatives and Producer Organisations
How Participatory Guarantee Systems (PGS) Work for Local and Regional Markets
Introduction to International Organic Market Requirements

Module 06 — Quality, Post-Harvest Handling and Processing

Recognising and Showcasing a Quality Organic Product
Conservation and Solar Drying Techniques for Agricultural Products
Biodegradable and Eco-Friendly Packaging Solutions
Labelling and Traceability Rules
Managing the Separation of Organic and Non-Organic Flows in Processing Units

Module 07 — Economics, Organic Markets and Agricultural Entrepreneurship

Analysis of Organic Markets and Economic Opportunities
Building a Viable Business Model for Organic Farms
Building an Investment and Financing Plan
Marketing Strategies:
- Short supply chains
- Local markets
- Export
- Agricultural e-commerce

Module 08 — Case Studies and Hands-on Workshops

Case 1: Using Carbon Sequestration to Improve Farm Income
Case 2: Implementing Decision Support Systems to Reduce Pesticide Use
Case 3: Composting Organic Farm Waste to Improve Soil Fertility and Water Availability
Case 4: Study of a Business Model for Organic Market Gardening