Call for Participation in an International Field Course On Agroecology

Integrated Project Agro- and Ecosystems Engineering

REF: INT FIELD COURSE/ADCLIM CALL 04

A Master of Science (MSc) Field Course, Integrated Project in Agro- and Ecosystems Engineering, funded under the projects Adapting to Climate-Resilient Farming Systems in Western Kenya: The Sustainable Path by Embedding Agroecology in Research, Education and Outreach (ADCLIM) and Strengthening Recordkeeping for more Sustainable and Resilient Smallholder Farming in Western Kenya (FarmRecord4SD) by VLIR-UOS, in collaboration with KU Leuven (Belgium), is scheduled from 2^nd to 14^th November 2025. This year’s course will be hosted by the University of Eldoret (UoE) and evaluted as part of the MSc Course Seminars.

The Field Course program involves a 3-week training workshop at UoE (Hybrid) and a two week field course (one week of fieldwork, one week of data analysis, poster preparation and presentation). Multicultural, multidisciplinary teams of seven students will analyse agroecosystems, cropping systems, biodiversity, ecosystem services, soils, climate, and socio-economic conditions at farm and landscape levels to assess the application of the 13 agroecology principles in strengthening community resilience to climate change in Homabay County. They will also identify key constraints and opportunities for sustainable rural development.

Student teams will present findings on a graded poster presentation. A multidisciplinary team of resource persons from both universities will demonstrate field methods, offer guidance, and evaluate the work. The course equips students to address real community problems while fostering networks and collaborations that support their future careers. Applications are invited for the 2025 field Course. Limited spaces are available.

ELIGIBILITY