Course in Organic Agriculture

In recent years, global interest in the environment, human health, and food quality has significantly increased, making organic agriculture a strategic choice that balances human needs with the preservation of natural resources. Organic agriculture is not simply about avoiding chemical fertilizers and pesticides; it is a holistic system built on sustainability, soil protection, biodiversity conservation, and the production of safe and healthy food. For this reason, Geneva Institute of Business Administration presents this specialized training program under the title “Organic Agriculture”, aiming to equip participants with scientific knowledge and practical skills to understand the principles, practices, and applications of modern organic farming. The program also emphasizes the importance of sustainability and innovation in ensuring food security and protecting ecosystems for future generations.

Target Audience

• Farmers and farm owners who aim to transition to organic farming and develop sustainable production systems that maintain soil fertility and crop quality.

• Agricultural engineers and specialists working in extension services and consultancy who wish to deepen their expertise in organic production systems.

• Investors and agribusiness entrepreneurs seeking to enter the growing markets of organic food at both local and international levels.

• Government employees and NGO staff engaged in environmental protection and sustainable agricultural development projects.

• Academics and researchers interested in exploring alternative farming systems and innovations in organic agriculture.

Objectives

• Provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of the scientific foundations and guiding principles of organic agriculture and its role in promoting food security.

• Introduce participants to techniques and practices for managing soil, water, and crops within the framework of organic farming systems.

• Clarify the requirements and processes of transitioning from conventional to organic farming, including certification and compliance with organic standards.

• Raise awareness of the importance of biodiversity conservation and the sustainable use of natural resources in agriculture.

• Enable participants to design practical strategies for improving organic production and developing markets in line with international standards.

Course Outline

• Concept and Foundations of Organic Agriculture

  • Definition and key characteristics of organic agriculture.

  • Differences between organic and conventional farming.

  • Core principles of organic production systems.

  • Contribution of organic agriculture to food security.

• Soil in Organic Farming

  • Importance of soil as the basis of agricultural life.

  • Methods of improving soil fertility in organic systems.

  • Natural sources of organic fertilizers.

  • Techniques to maintain soil balance and health.

• Water Management in Organic Systems

  • The role of water in organic production.

  • Irrigation techniques suitable for organic farming.

  • Ensuring the quality of water used in agriculture.

  • Strategies for efficient water conservation.

• Crop Management in Organic Agriculture

  • Selection of seeds suitable for organic farming.

  • Crop rotation practices and their importance.

  • Natural methods for protecting plants from pests.

  • Techniques for enhancing productivity organically.

• Pest Management in Organic Agriculture

  • Concept of biological pest control.

  • Use of beneficial organisms in crop protection.

  • Natural alternatives to chemical pesticides.

  • Role of ecological balance in reducing pests.

• Biodiversity in Organic Farming Systems

  • Importance of biodiversity for sustainable production.

  • Protection of beneficial species in farming environments.

  • Integration of crops and livestock in organic systems.

  • Conservation of agricultural ecosystems.

• Transition from Conventional to Organic Farming

  • Practical steps for adopting organic practices.

  • Key challenges faced during the transition.

  • Solutions and strategies to overcome obstacles.

  • Timeframes and requirements for organic conversion.

• Certification and Standards in Organic Agriculture

  • Fundamentals of organic certification systems.

  • International and regional standards for organic products.

  • Verification, auditing, and compliance processes.

  • Benefits of certification for farmers and markets.

• Marketing and Trade of Organic Products

  • Characteristics of local and international organic markets.

  • Consumer behavior and trends toward organic food.

  • Effective marketing strategies for organic products.

  • Challenges and opportunities in organic trade.

• Organic Agriculture and Sustainable Development

  • Contribution of organic farming to environmental protection.

  • Role in economic growth and social development.

  • Link between organic agriculture and the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

  • The future of organic agriculture in addressing global challenges.