Wageningen Centre for Development Innovation: Contemporary Approaches to Genetic Resources Conservation and Use, April 16-May 4, 2012
The Wageningen UR Centre for Development Innovation (CDI) is holding a three-week training program, April 16-May 4, 2012, on “Contemporary Approaches to Genetic Resources Conservation and Use.” The program will be held in Wageningen, The Netherlands.
The program includes two modules: “Genetic Resource Policy and Conservation Strategies” and “Integrated Seed Sector Development.”
Seed is the carrier of all genetic information of plants and forms the basis of crop production. Seed is a key issue in addressing agricultural development and food security, but also a commodity that can promote economic development and entrepreneurship. The concept of integrated seed sector development recognizes that within both the farmer- and community-based productions systems, and also the formal public and private systems, different values are upheld and different conditions apply, which generate their own limitations for seed sector development.
The objective of the training module on integrated seed sector development is to strengthen participants’ knowledge and capabilities to support the concept of an integrated approach to the development of a vibrant and pluralistic seed sector.
The training focuses on the following topics:
- Seed and genetic resource policies
- Integrated approaches to seed sector development
- Formal and informal seed systems
- Public-private partnerships
- Local seed business development
- Entrepreneurship and agribusiness
- The role of knowledge institutes in seed sector development
- Methodologies and tools for participatory learning and action
A detailed program brochure is available for more information and applications instructions (including application for fellowships). The deadline to apply for a fellowship is October 1, 2011. The deadline for the full program is March 16, 2012.