Professional Diploma in Organic Food Production and Value Chain Management

Program Summary

Start Dates

Duration

Fees

Learning Activities

Course Overview

The Professional Diploma in Organic Food Production and Value Chain Management is an innovative and comprehensive program designed to meet the rising demand for organic food and sustainable practices across Africa and globally. With a focus on the entire value chain from production to market, this course prepares participants to become leaders in organic farming, supply chain optimization, and organic product marketing. By integrating technical skills in organic farming, post-harvest handling, processing, and strategic management, this diploma empowers professionals to tap into the growing organic market with knowledge, best practices, and profitability in mind.

This course addresses key topics, including organic soil management, certification processes, ethical sourcing, and value chain logistics, while focusing on practical knowledge for growing, processing, and marketing organic products. Participants will gain insights into maximizing product quality and market reach, managing organic certification processes, and optimizing supply chains to ensure product integrity.

What You Will Achieve

1

Expertise in Organic Foods Enterprise

Graduates of the Professional Diploma in Organic Food Production and Value Chain Management will have the expertise to start, manage, scale and grow organic food enterprises with a strong focus on sustainability, quality, and profitability.

2

Leadership

They will be well-prepared to lead Africa’s organic movement, ensuring high standards and capturing opportunities in local and global markets.

3

Networking Opportunities

Build connections with a diverse cohort of professionals across industries.

Program Curriculum

Module 1

Principles of Organic Food Production and Agriculture

This foundational module introduces the core principles of organic agriculture and sustainable food production, setting the stage for best practices in soil health, crop management, and resource optimization.

Introduction to Organic Agriculture: Core concepts, benefits, and market trends.
Soil Health and Organic Fertilization: Techniques to maintain and enhance soil fertility, including composting, green manures, and crop rotation.
Crop Rotation and Diversity: Best practices for fostering biodiversity, enhancing soil health, and managing pest populations.
Organic Pest and Disease Management: Strategies for natural pest control, biological methods, and integrated pest management.
Organic Livestock Management: Basics of animal welfare, organic feed, and health practices in organic systems.
Case Studies: Successful organic farms and food production systems in Africa and globally.

Module 2

Organic Certification and Regulatory Compliance

Participants will gain a thorough understanding of certification processes and regulatory requirements for organic products, from soil preparation through production, packaging, and market distribution.Core Topics in module 2 are:

Organic Standards and Certification Bodies: Exploring global and regional standards, such as USDA Organic, EU Organic, and AFRISCO.
Certification Process: Steps and costs involved in certifying organic products, including record-keeping and documentation.
Maintaining Organic Integrity: Avoiding contamination, managing buffer zones, and ensuring traceability.
Compliance with Export Standards: Understanding trade regulations and certifications for international markets.
Audit and Inspection Preparation: Best practices for preparing for organic audits, including self-assessments and documentation.
Practical Application: Participants will develop a certification plan for a selected organic product.

Module 3

Organic Crop Production Techniques and Post-Harvest Management

This module dives into the specifics of organic crop production, focusing on various food categories (vegetables, grains, fruits) and post-harvest practices that preserve product quality. Core Topics in module 3 are:

Vegetable and Fruit Production in Organic Systems: Optimizing soil, water, and nutrient management specific to organic fruit and vegetable production.
Organic Grain Production: Techniques for growing cereals and pulses organically, including pest control, crop management, and harvesting.
Post-Harvest Handling: Minimizing losses, preserving nutrients, and handling techniques for fruits, vegetables, and grains.
Organic Processing Techniques: Drying, canning, and preserving organic products while maintaining integrity.
Cold Storage and Packaging: Approaches for prolonging shelf life and quality in line with organic standards.
Lab Exercises: Hands-on practices in sorting, grading, and packaging organic produce.

Module 4

Value Chain Optimization for Organic Food Products

Understanding and managing the value chain is critical in the organic food industry. This module explores logistics, supply chain management, and ethical sourcing for organic products to ensure market-ready goods maintain organic integrity.

Core Topics in module 4 are:

Supply Chain Fundamentals: Key logistics and value chain stages in the organic industry.
Ethical Sourcing and Traceability: Implementing transparency in sourcing, transportation, and warehousing to ensure product integrity.
Cold Chain Logistics: Techniques for managing perishable organic products from farm to retail.
Managing Organic Food Waste: Reducing losses and waste throughout the chain, from production to retail.
Blockchain in Organic Supply Chains: Enhancing transparency, traceability, and quality control with blockchain solutions.
Capstone Project: Participants design a value chain plan for an organic product targeting local or export markets.

Module 5

Product Development, Branding, and Marketing for Organic Food

This module provides participants with essential tools for developing, branding, and marketing organic food products. Focus is placed on market positioning, consumer behavior, and innovative marketing strategies.

Core Topics in module 5 are:

Branding and Positioning: Developing a strong brand identity for organic products.
Consumer Behaviour in Organic Markets: Understanding buyer motivations and trends in Africa and globally.
Product Innovation: Creating new products and variations to meet market demands, including packaging innovations.
Digital and Social Media Marketing: Leveraging digital platforms to reach health-conscious and eco-conscious consumers.
Retail and Distribution Channels: Effective strategies for local and export distribution of organic products.
Practical Project: Participants create a go-to-market strategy, branding concept, and marketing campaign for a new organic product.

Module 6

Financial Management and Investment Strategies in Organic Food Production

This module emphasizes the financial aspects of managing an organic food business, from budgeting and cost management to securing investment and managing risks.

Core Topics in module 6 are:

Costing and Budgeting for Organic Farms: Analysing production costs and budgeting for profitability.
Investment Opportunities in Organic Agriculture: Identifying and attracting investment for organic food businesses.
Financial Risk Management: Understanding and mitigating financial risks unique to organic farming and processing.
Funding Options and Grant Programs: Exploring sources of funding, including government programs, grants, and private investment.
Profitability Analysis for Organic Enterprises: Evaluating financial performance and growth potential.
Case Studies: Examining financial strategies of profitable organic food businesses.

Module 7

Export Markets and Global Trade in Organic Food Products

This module prepares participants to enter and compete in the global organic market, providing insights into international trade regulations, packaging requirements, and strategies for gaining market access.

Core Topics in module 7 are:

Export Requirements and Certification: Meeting international organic standards for major export markets.
Global Demand for Organic Products: Analysing top export markets for African organic products.
Trade Barriers and Solutions: Navigating import restrictions, tariffs, and trade agreements.
Logistics for Export Markets: Managing transportation, warehousing, and cold chain logistics for international sales.
Packaging and Labeling for Export: Meeting labeling regulations and ensuring sustainable packaging.
Practical Application: Participants develop an export strategy for an organic product targeting a specific global market.

Module 8

Entrepreneurship and Scaling Organic Food Businesses

In this capstone module, participants will learn strategies for building and scaling successful organic food businesses, with a focus on leadership, growth, and innovation.

Core Topics in module 8 are:

Developing a Business Plan for Organic Enterprises: Crafting a comprehensive plan for growth and sustainability.
Scaling Organic Operations: Techniques for expanding production, distribution, and market reach.
Social and Environmental Impact: Emphasizing sustainability and community impact in organic business growth.
Leadership and People Management: Building strong teams and cultivating a culture of integrity and innovation.
Innovations in Organic Food: Exploring emerging technologies and practices in organic production.
Capstone Project: Participants develop a business growth plan and present it as their final project.

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.

Admission Process

STEP 1: Complete the Application for Admission Form for the course

STEP 2: A non-refundable application fee of N20,000 applies and will be deducted from the tuition upon enrollment. This is payable into
Zenith Bank
Account Name: Nigerian College of Agribusiness
Account Number: 1228461510

STEP 3: Attach receipt of Application fee with your highest academic credential and submit to: [email protected]

STEP 4: Upon successful evaluation of your application, you will receive your Admission Letter indicating acceptance into the program. The Letter will also contain details of enrollment into the Course.
Click on the link below to fill the application form for this course

Tuition Fees

Local: N450,000

International Students: $400

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get monthly marketing tips and exclusive discounts straight to your inbox