Professional Diploma in Climate Smart Agriculture and Sustainable Food Systems

COURSE OVERVIEW

Revolutionize Africa’s Agriculture: Build Resilient, Sustainable, and Climate-Smart Food Systems

Agriculture is the backbone of Africa’s economy, but it is also one of the most vulnerable sectors to the impacts of climate change. As rising temperatures, unpredictable rainfall, and extreme weather events threaten food security, Africa needs innovative solutions that will sustain agriculture while protecting the environment. The Professional Diploma in Climate-Smart Agriculture and Sustainable Food Systems is designed to equip you with the knowledge, strategies, and practical skills to transform Africa’s agricultural landscape in a changing climate.

Indeed, Agriculture is at the heart of Africa’s response to climate change, and this diploma will place you at the forefront of this critical transformation. This program offers a ground-breaking approach to agriculture, focusing on resilience, sustainability, and climate adaptability. You will learn how to design and implement agricultural systems that not only withstand the pressures of climate change but also promote environmental stewardship, economic viability, and food security for future generations.

What You Will Achieve:

a. Become a Pioneer of Sustainable Agriculture: Lead the transformation of African farming by integrating climate-smart practices that boost productivity and preserve ecosystems.

b. Promote Food Security in a Changing Climate: Ensure resilient food systems that can feed Africa’s growing population despite the challenges posed by climate change.

c. Champion Innovation in Agribusiness: Design profitable, sustainable agricultural models that balance productivity with climate action.

Upon completion, you will receive the Professional Diploma in Climate-Smart Agriculture and Sustainable Food Systems from the Nigerian College of Agribusiness, a respected certification recognized for driving agricultural innovation and sustainability in Africa. This diploma will position you as a leader in the future of African agriculture—where food production and climate action go hand in hand.

PROGRAMME SUMMARY

  • COURSE START DATE
    November 25, 2024. Deadline for application submission ( November 23)
  • COURSE DURATION
    3 Months
  • CERTIFICATION
    Professional Diploma in Climate Smart Agriculture and Sustainable Food Systems
  • MODE OF STUDY
    Live Classes Online
  • TUITION FEE
    Nigeria: N300,000
    International: $400
  • APPLY NOW

PROGRAM CURRICULUM

Module 1: Foundations of Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA)

This foundational module introduces the core principles of Climate-Smart Agriculture, a holistic approach designed to address food security and climate change. You will explore how CSA practices can increase productivity, enhance resilience, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Actionable Insights:

  1. Key principles of CSA and how to implement them across different agricultural systems.
  2. Techniques for increasing agricultural productivity while reducing the sector’s carbon footprint.
  3. Aligning agricultural practices with national and global climate policies.

Module 2: Soil Health and Water Management for Resilient Agriculture

Healthy soils and efficient water use are critical for sustainable agriculture, particularly in Africa’s arid and semi-arid regions. This module focuses on building soil fertility and optimizing water management to support climate-resilient farming.

Actionable Insights:

  1. Strategies for improving soil fertility, structure, and organic matter to boost productivity.
  2. Water conservation techniques such as rainwater harvesting, drip irrigation, and efficient water use.
  3. Designing agricultural systems that protect watersheds, reduce runoff, and enhance water retention.

Module 3: Climate-Resilient Crop and Livestock Production Systems

In this module, you will explore how to adapt crop and livestock systems to withstand the impacts of climate change. Learn practical methods for improving the resilience of key food systems while ensuring high productivity and sustainable livelihoods for farmers.

Actionable Insights:

  1. Selecting climate-resilient crop varieties and livestock breeds that thrive in changing conditions.
  2. Integrated crop-livestock systems for diversifying incomes and building resilience.
  3. Techniques for minimizing the impacts of drought, heat stress, pests, and diseases on production.

Module 4: Sustainable Food Systems and Supply Chains

Building resilient and sustainable food systems requires transforming not only production but also processing, distribution, and consumption. This module focuses on designing sustainable food supply chains that minimize waste, reduce carbon emissions, and ensure equitable access to food.

Actionable Insights:

  1. Developing circular food systems that turn agricultural waste into valuable resources.
  2. Implementing sustainable supply chains that minimize post-harvest losses and food waste.
  3. Leveraging technology and innovation to build transparent, efficient, and sustainable food distribution networks.

Module 5: Policy, Advocacy, and Financing for Climate-Smart Agriculture

Effective climate-smart agriculture requires supportive policies, advocacy, and innovative financing models. This module will provide you with the tools to navigate the policy landscape, advocate for sustainable agricultural practices, and access funding for climate-smart projects.

Actionable Insights:

  1. How to influence agricultural and climate policies that support CSA at local, national, and international levels.
  2. Advocating for the integration of climate action into agricultural policies and rural development strategies.
  3. Exploring funding opportunities, such as carbon markets, climate finance, and public-private partnerships for CSA projects.

Module 6: Monitoring, Evaluating, and Scaling Climate-Smart Agriculture Solutions

To drive large-scale change, climate-smart agricultural practices need to be measured, evaluated, and scaled across communities and regions. In this final module, you will learn how to design robust monitoring and evaluation frameworks, measure the impact of CSA initiatives, and scale successful practices.

Actionable Insights:

  1. Developing monitoring and evaluation systems for CSA projects to ensure they deliver tangible benefits.
  2. Analyzing and interpreting data to assess the effectiveness of climate-smart interventions.
  3. Strategies for scaling climate-smart solutions from pilot projects to broader community or regional applications.

Faculty Members

The Nigerian College of Agribusiness has about 60 faculty members—distinguished scholars, industry leaders, and mentors, with more being hired each year as we open new, progressive, and unique programs. But the story is not just in the numbers. Each year, as we launch innovative and unique programs, our faculty continues to grow, bringing in fresh perspectives and expertise. At NCA, you will learn directly from these award-winning faculty members in small classes where you will have easy access to them.

Some of the faculty members on the Professional Diploma in Business Analytics for Food and Agriculture are:

Stephen-Owoyemi (1)

Dr. Steve Arowolo

Dr. Steve Arowolo is a global leader in climate action and sustainability with an MSc in Climate Change and Development from the African Climate and Development Initiative (ACDI) at the University of Cape Town, South Africa. He has led impactful Climate Action Plans across Southern and West Africa, serving as a consultant to numerous organizations. Dr. Arowolo specializes in climate action for enterprises, carbon enterprise management, and ESG strategies. As the Executive Director of Green Shift Africa, a Cape Town-based advocacy organization, he empowers corporations to adapt to climate and environmental challenges, driving Africa’s green economy. He is an alumnus of Yale University’s Sustainability Leadership program and he holds a PhD in Environmental Studies from the University of Cape Town. Dr Arowolo is passionate about integrating climate change into governance and business management across the continent.

Prof Adeoluwa (1)

Professor Olugbenga Adeoluwa

Professor Olugbenga Adeoluwa is a distinguished expert in Agroecology and Organic Agriculture, with a PhD in Soil Fertility from the University of Ibadan. As a Professor in the Department of Agronomy at the University of Ibadan, he is at the forefront of developing climate-smart agriculture, agroforestry, and organic farming systems as solutions to climate and carbon risks. He also serves as the Continental Coordinator of the Organic and Agroecology Initiative (ORAIN), a network of leading organic and agroecological organizations across Nigeria. With decades of experience in advancing sustainable agricultural practices, Professor Adeoluwa is passionate about driving Africa’s transition to resilient, environmentally sound farming systems.

Why Study at the Nigerian College of Agribusiness?

No other institution in Africa offers such a comprehensive approach to agribusiness and development sector education as the Nigerian College of Agribusiness. We provide a unique blend of academic rigor, practical expertise, and industry connections. Here, you will learn from experienced faculty members who are experts in their fields and deeply engaged with the latest advancements in their industries. We leverage interdisciplinary knowledge and the latest research to enhance our programs, ensuring they are relevant and impactful. At NCA, you will continuously engage with thought leaders who are constantly shaping the dynamics of their industries and after graduation, you will be a life-long member of a vibrant alumni community that continually foster cross-disciplinary learning and networking.

Tuition Fee

Local Students: N300,000

International Students: $400

Course Start Date

25th November, 2024

Deadline for application

submission ( November 23)

ADMISSION CRITERIA

We seek highly motivated individuals who have demonstrated the potential to excel in a rigorous, integrated program. The admission requirements for the Professional Diploma in Climate Smart Agriculture and Sustainable Food Systems are as follows:

  1. University Degree: Applicants must hold an undergraduate degree from an institution recognized by the Nigerian College of Agribusiness.
  2. Interview Assessment: Candidates must demonstrate satisfactory performance in an online interview assessment, showcasing their readiness for the program’s challenges.
  3. English Proficiency: A strong command of the English language is essential, as it is the medium of instruction and communication.
  4. Digital Competency: Applicants should possess solid skills in internet navigation and online learning tools, ensuring they can effectively participate in the program’s online format.

APPLY NOW

To secure a spot in the Professional Diploma in Climate Smart Agriculture and Sustainable Food Systems program starting on November 25, 2024, applications must be submitted by November 23, 2024.

To apply for this program, please complete and submit the application form below.

Contact Us
Nigeria
Head, Mini MBA Programs Nigerian College of Agribusiness 10, Bisi Akande Rd, Oluyole Estate, Ibadan Plot 502, Dalaba Crescent, Zone 5, Abuja
Email: [email protected]
Tel/WhatsApp: 09023789104 (Local) +2349023789104
(International)
South Africa Representative
Destiny Smart
Durban, South Africa
Tel/WhatsApp: +27844117039
Uganda Representative
Mark Andrew
Kampala, Uganda
Tel/WhatsApp: +256 701 9777 11
Zimbabwe Representative
Biriwasha Masimba
Harare, Zimbabwe
Tel/WhatsApp: +256 784 121 347
South Sudan Representative
Cinya Robert Rufino
Juba, South Sudan
Tel/Whatsapp: +256 784 121 347