Global Certificate Course in Agroecological Systems Thinking
Published on June 28, 2025
About this Podcast
HOST: Welcome to our podcast, today I'm excited to have Dr. Jane Smith, an expert in sustainable agriculture and the lead instructor for the new course, "Global Certificate Course in Agroecological Systems Thinking." Dr. Smith, can you tell us a bit about this course and why it's important? GUEST: Absolutely, the course is designed to equip students, farmers, researchers, and policymakers with the skills to design and manage sustainable food systems. It's crucial because we need to adopt regenerative agriculture practices and ecological principles to address climate-smart agriculture. HOST: That sounds fascinating. Can you share any personal experiences or insights related to the course topic? GUEST: Sure, I've seen firsthand how applying agroecological principles can improve soil health, increase biodiversity, and enhance pest management. This knowledge is vital for building resilient food systems and ensuring food security. HOST: Speaking of which, what are some of the current industry trends relevant to the course? GUEST: There's growing interest in agroforestry and regenerative agriculture. Also, policymakers are recognizing the importance of sustainable agriculture for climate change mitigation and adaptation. HOST: That's great to hear. But, as with any new field, there must be challenges. Can you share any challenges you've faced in the field or while teaching this subject? GUEST: One challenge is helping students grasp the holistic nature of agroecological systems thinking. It requires a shift from conventional, reductionist approaches to a more integrated, interdisciplinary mindset. HOST: I can imagine that would be challenging. Lastly, what do you think the future holds for this area or industry? GUEST: I believe agroecological systems thinking will become increasingly important as we face challenges like climate change, biodiversity loss, and food security. By learning and applying these principles, we can create innovative solutions and lead the way in sustainable food systems. HOST: Dr. Smith, thank you so much for sharing your insights and experiences with us today. We're excited to see the impact this course will have on the future of sustainable agriculture. GUEST: Thank you for having me. I'm looking forward to seeing the positive changes this course can bring to the industry and the world.
