Introduction

This course aims to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of crop science, including the physiological, genetic, ecological, and management aspects of crop production. Participants will also learn about the latest trends and developments in crop science and its impact on food security and sustainable agriculture.

Participants who successfully complete the course will receive a Certificate of Participation.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND

This course would benefit a variety of students and professionals, including:

·      Undergraduate and graduate students majoring in agricultural sciences, horticulture, plant science, or a related field.

·      Professionals in the agricultural industry, such as farmers, crop consultants, and agribusiness managers.

·      Researchers and scientists in the field of crop science and agriculture.

·      Government and non-government organizations working on food security, agricultural sustainability and agricultural extension services.

·      Anyone interested in learning about the science and management of crop production, and its role in ensuring global food security and sustainability.

COURSE OBJECTIVES

At the end of the course, participants will be able to:

1.    To provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of crop science, including crop physiology, genetics and breeding, ecology, and production and management.

2.    To develop participants' understanding of the scientific principles and methods used in crop improvement, breeding and genetic engineering.

3.    To introduce participants to the latest trends and developments in crop science, including biotechnology, sustainable agriculture, crop-livestock systems, and the impact of climate change on crop production.

4.    To help participants understand the importance of crop science in ensuring global food security and sustainability.

5.    To develop participants' critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills through lectures, discussions, group work, and independent research projects.

6.    To prepare participants for careers in the agricultural industry, research, or further graduate study in crop science or related fields.

7.    To provide participants with a broad understanding of the major crop plants and their production, and the ecological, economic, and social factors that influence crop production.

8.    To develop the participants' ability to conduct independent research and to report their findings in a professional manner.

DURATION

10 Days

Module I. Introduction to Crop Science

·      Definition and scope of crop science

·      Importance of crop science in food production and agricultural sustainability

Module II. Crop Physiology

·      Plant growth and development

·      Photosynthesis and respiration

·      Water relations and mineral nutrition

·      Adaptation to environmental stresses

Module III. Crop Genetics and Breeding

·      Principles of genetics and inheritance

·      Methods of crop improvement

·      Breeding techniques for various crops

Module IV. Crop Ecology

·      Ecosystems and agroecosystems

·      Climate and weather effects on crop growth

·      Soil fertility and management

·      Pest and disease management

Module V: Crop Production and Management

·      Field preparation and planting

·      Irrigation and drainage

·      Fertilization and soil management

·      Harvesting and post-harvest management

Module VI: Cultural practices for major field crops (corn, wheat, soybeans, etc.)

·      Irrigation and water management

·      Harvesting and post-harvest handling

Module VII: Horticultural Crop Production

·      Cultural practices for fruits, vegetables, and ornamental crops

·      Greenhouse and protected culture

·      Specialty crop production (organic, high tunnels, etc.)

Module VIII: Crop Management and Economics

·      Crop production planning and budgeting

·      Crop insurance and risk management

·      Global crop production and trade

Module IX: Special Topics in Crop Science

·      Biotechnology and genetic engineering in crop improvement

·      Sustainable agriculture and organic farming

·      Crop-livestock systems

·      Climate change and its impact on crop production

Module X: Conclusion and future trends in crop science

·      Current challenges in crop science

·      Future research and development in crop science

General Notes

·      The instructor led trainings are delivered using a blended learning approach and comprises of presentations, guided sessions of practical exercise, web-based tutorials and group work. Our facilitators are seasoned industry experts with years of experience, working as professional and trainers in these fields.

·      The participants should be reasonably proficient in English as all facilitation and course materials will be offered in English.

·      Upon successful completion of this training, participants will be issued with a certificate.

·      The training will be held at Kincaid Training Centre. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments and lunch.

·      All participants will additionally cater for their, travel expenses, visa application, insurance, and other personal expenses.

·      Accommodation and airport pickup are arranged upon request. For reservations contact the Training coordinator at Email: training@kincaiddevelopmentcenter.org or Tel: +254 724592901

·      This training can also be customized to suit the needs of your institution upon request. You can have it delivered in our Kincaid Training Centre or at a convenient location.

For further inquiries, please contact us on Tel: +254 724592901 or send mail to training@kincaiddevelopmentcenter.org.

Payments are due upon registration. Payment should be sent to our Bank account before commencement of training and proof of payment sent to training@kincaiddevelopmentcenter.org.