Professional Diploma in Agroecology, Regenerative Farming and Natural Resources Management

COURSE OVERVIEW

Lead Africa’s Shift to Regenerative Farming and Sustainable Natural Resources Management

In a world facing unprecedented environmental challenges, agriculture must evolve to protect ecosystems, enhance biodiversity, and ensure sustainable food production. Agroecology and regenerative farming offer the keys to this transformation by integrating ecological principles with innovative farming techniques. This Professional Diploma in Agroecology, Regenerative Farming, and Natural Resources Management is designed to equip you with the skills, knowledge, and practical tools to lead Africa’s agricultural systems toward a more sustainable future.

This cutting-edge diploma combines the science of agroecology with regenerative farming practices and sustainable natural resources management. You will learn how to design farming systems that restore soil health, conserve water, enhance biodiversity, and contribute to climate resilience while producing high-quality, nutritious food. By focusing on holistic, nature-based approaches, this program will position you as a leader in the transition to sustainable agriculture in Africa.

What You Will Achieve:

1. Master Regenerative Farming Techniques: Learn how to restore ecosystems, improve soil health, and sequester carbon through innovative farming practices.

2. Promote Sustainable Natural Resources Management: Lead efforts to manage land, water, and biodiversity in a way that balances agricultural productivity with environmental stewardship.

3. Become a Change Maker in African Agriculture: Guide the shift to sustainable, ecologically sound farming systems that enhance food security, rural livelihoods, and environmental health.

Upon completion, you will receive the Professional Diploma in Agroecology, Regenerative Farming, and Natural Resources Management from the Nigerian College of Agribusiness. This diploma is a respected certification recognized for excellence in fostering sustainability and environmental innovation across Africa’s agricultural landscape.

PROGRAMME SUMMARY

  • COURSE START DATE
    November 25, 2024. Deadline for application submission ( November 23)
  • COURSE DURATION
    3 Months
  • CERTIFICATION
    Professional Diploma in Agroecology, Regenerative Farming and Natural Resources Management
  • MODE OF STUDY
    Online Lectures PLUS Physical Field Sessions in Abuja and Ibadan
  • TUITION FEE
    Nigeria: N300,000
    International: $400
  • APPLY NOW

PROGRAM CURRICULUM

Module 1: Introduction to Agroecology and Regenerative Agriculture

This module introduces the foundational concepts of agroecology and regenerative agriculture, both of which emphasize the interconnections between farming, ecosystems, and human well-being. You will learn how to apply ecological principles to agriculture and design systems that regenerate natural resources while producing food.

Actionable Insights:

  1. Core principles of agroecology and regenerative farming and their practical applications.
  2. How to design integrated farming systems that enhance ecosystem services, such as soil fertility, pest control, and water retention.
  3. The role of biodiversity in creating resilient, productive agricultural systems that work in harmony with nature.

Module 2: Soil Regeneration and Health in Sustainable Agriculture

Healthy soils are the foundation of sustainable farming systems. This module focuses on techniques for restoring soil health, improving its structure, and increasing organic matter. You will learn how to implement practices that regenerate soils, boost productivity, and sequester carbon to mitigate climate change.

Actionable Insights:

  1. Techniques for building and maintaining healthy, biologically active soils.
  2. Composting, cover cropping, and crop rotation strategies to regenerate soil and prevent erosion.
  3. How regenerative practices improve soil’s ability to retain moisture, store carbon, and support plant growth.

Module 3: Water Conservation and Management in Agroecological Systems

Water is one of the most critical resources for

agriculture, particularly in regions prone to drought or water scarcity. In this module, you will explore techniques for managing water resources more efficiently, ensuring crops thrive while minimizing water waste and environmental degradation.

Actionable Insights:

  1. Designing water-efficient agricultural systems that conserve water and enhance resilience to droughts.
  2. Techniques such as rainwater harvesting, drip irrigation, and building swales to optimize water use in farming.
  3. Managing water resources sustainably to protect wetlands, rivers, and other critical ecosystems.

Module 4: Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services in Agroecosystems

Biodiversity is central to the health of agroecosystems, providing essential services such as pollination, pest control, and nutrient cycling. This module will show you how to enhance and manage biodiversity in farming systems to create more resilient, productive landscapes.

Actionable Insights:

  1. How to integrate trees, shrubs, and wildlife corridors into agricultural landscapes to enhance biodiversity.
  2. Encouraging beneficial insects and natural predators to control pests without relying on synthetic inputs.
  3. Using agroforestry and permaculture design principles to build biodiversity-rich systems that produce food and provide ecosystem services.

Module 5: Sustainable Natural Resources Management and Conservation

Natural resources like forests, wetlands, and grasslands are essential to agricultural sustainability, but they are under threat from overuse and mismanagement. This module focuses on strategies for managing land, water, and biodiversity in ways that support agriculture and protect ecosystems.

Actionable Insights:

  1. Best practices for managing and conserving natural resources, including land use planning and integrated landscape management.
  2. Strategies for protecting and restoring forests, wetlands, and other critical ecosystems.
  3. How sustainable resource management practices can enhance food security, mitigate climate change, and improve rural livelihoods.

Module 6: Agroecological Solutions for Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation

In this final module, you will learn how agroecological and regenerative farming systems can be leveraged to combat climate change. This includes practices that help farms adapt to changing conditions while reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing carbon sequestration.

Actionable Insights:

  1. Designing agroecological systems that are resilient to climate extremes, such as droughts, floods, and heatwaves.
  2. Implementing carbon-sequestering practices like agroforestry, no-till farming, and rotational grazing.
  3. How agroecology and regenerative farming can play a key role in global climate change mitigation efforts by reducing emissions and capturing carbon in soils and plants.

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 Agroecology, Regenerative Farming and Natural Resources Management 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. He is at the forefront of developing climate-smart agriculture, agroforestry, and organic farming systems as solutions to climate and carbon risks. He serves as the Continental Coordinator of the Organic and Agroecology Initiative (ORAIN), a network of leading organic and agroecological organizations across Nigeria. He is also on the Continental Steering Committee for

the Ecological Organic Agriculture Initiative (EOA), an African Union Commission-endorsed project promoting sustainable food systems across eight African Nations. He is the Vice-President of the Association of Organic Agriculture Practitioners of Nigeria, Secretary of the West African Organic Network, and Chair of the Research Thematic Group at the African Organic Network.

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.

Class Recordings

All classes are recorded daily and made available to students, allowing them to review and reinforce key concepts at their convenience. These recordings also provide an opportunity for students who may miss a live class session to stay on track and catch up with the course content.

Assessment

Individual Assignments, Group Presentations and Capstone Projects.

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 Agroecology, Regenerative Farming and Natural Resources Management 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

Applications for the Professional Diploma in Agroecology, Regenerative Farming and Natural Resources Management must be submitted

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