The WATDEV project successfully concluded the 3rd Module of its Training and Capacity Building Course on "Water, Soil, and Crop Management in a Climate-Smart Agriculture." Held from February 17th to 28th, 2025, at CIHEAM Bari, Italy, this initiative aimed to empower young scientists and researchers from Kenya, Ethiopia, Egypt, and Sudan. With twenty selected participants, four PhD students working on the WATDEV project, and representatives from ASARECA and Heliopolis University, this last module focused on networking, international cooperation policies, project design, and funding opportunities to develop the agronomic sector in WATDEV countries. Led by CIHEAM Bari, the training provided remarkable contributions from European institutions, internationally renowned experts, and practitioners who delivered well-balanced and varied insights into European policies and strategies, international funding instruments, and project design techniques.
The first week of the training featured expert-led sessions. The opening remarks given by CIHEAM Bari Director Maurizio Raeli and AICS Cairo Director Martino Melli highlighted the role of international cooperation in strengthening food systems. Keynote speeches were delivered by the European Commission representatives. Etienne Coyette of DG INTPA and Nienke Buisman of DG Research & Innovation focused their contributions on EU Policies and Programmes for Research and Development in the Agro-food Sector in Africa. The following day, two lectio magistralis were held by Joachim Spangenberg (Sustainable Europe Research Institute) on sustainability and resilience in the polycrisis and by Prof. Pierre-Bruno Ruffini on Science Diplomacy.
The DeSIRA Initiative, along with the Erasmus+ Programme, the Horizon Europe Programme, the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions, are among the main initiativess examined in this training module. Workshops on international development cooperation, global challenges, and project and budget design completed the range of topics which were at the forefront of this training. Participants also took part in an engaging and enriching visit to CIHEAM Bari’s Tricase branch, where they visited the Food4Health Community Lab, AMADEÇO Syntropic Farm, and Casa delle Agricolture cooperative where they enjoyed a networking lunch and dinner while learning from the experiences of local agriculture entrepreneurs. These visits offered real-world insights into organic agriculture, nature-driven farming, and community-based sustainable agriculture.
Beyond the classroom, participants had the opportunity to immerse themselves in Italy’s agricultural and cultural heritage. Exploring sustainable fish farming, agroecology models, and inclusive food systems allowed them to see theory in practice. These activities fostered deeper connections among participants, enhancing their collaborative spirit and cultural exchange.
The final training session was devoted to communication and dissemination activities with a particular focus on video storytelling, ensuring participants can effectively share their professional improvements achieved through the WATDEV project. The training concluded with a closing ceremony where certificates were awarded to WATDEV trainees and Master students, marking their successful completion of the training program. As they return to their respective countries, these young scientists and researchers are now equipped with the expertise and networks to drive impactful projects in climate-smart agriculture. CIHEAM Bari and its partners extended their gratitude to all Professors and organizing staff, reinforcing their commitment to sustainable development through international cooperation.
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