A brief reference is made to the lessons that were presented during the summer courses in July 2017 in Evrotas and Murfatlar Romania (in brackets the names of the teachers).
- “Brand my Land”: The landscape and the culture of the place. Students should be aware of the advantages and disadvantages of their rural area. The lesson is complemented by detailed instructions for experiential observation of the area in which they live. (A. Goltsiou, University of the Aegean)
- “People and Environment”: Understanding the interdependence of natural, economic and environmental characteristics when implementing new, environmentally compatible, agricultural practices that protect agricultural income and capital. (Lekkas, Aegean)
- “Eco-farming”: Impact on the environment from agricultural activities. Analysis of the importance of maintaining biodiversity in food production, agriculture and products. (K. Laub, IZES)
- “Sustainable Rural Lands”: Transforming our world according to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Management. A healthy and dynamic agricultural sector is indispensable in regional development. Investments in environmental protection, rural infrastructure, health and education are critical factors in sustainable regional development and can improve the quality of life at national level. (Lekkas, Aegean)
- “Building sustainable Agro Business”: Guidelines for developing a Business Plan for farmers and rural entrepreneurs so that they can tailor their design to an alternative, profitable and sustainable agriculture. (J. Pertagnol, IZES)
- “Go Digital”: Promotion of agricultural products. The Internet of Things is the most modern trend. It means that the internet can “mobilize” natural products and items. Creating a site of an enterprise comprising products’ promotion and purchasing, can take no more than two hours. Local producers can make direct sales, while the profit margin is higher. Producers, exporters and importers create “Brand” and “Loyalty” for their product. (Ch. Alexopoulos, University of the Aegean)
- “Tourism in Rural Areas”: Tourism includes activities such as nature holidays, tours in the province, residential and cultural tourism, participation in festivals, recreation in the countryside, actions related to the production and sales of industrialized and agricultural products. Such options can contribute significantly to the increase of the income of residents and create opportunities for young people to stay in their place of origin (E. Klondzas, University of the Aegean)
- “Learn by Doing”: It is the basic step in raising students’ skills. It includes, applied Business Plans in collaboration with farmers, rural enterprises and, in particular, start-ups. (D. Mengega, KEAN)
- “Leave your “home sofa “: Usually, students are not interested in developing their own business since, the support from their families and the state is usually weak. Students should be ready to estimate any possible consequences while realizing that setting up an agrarian enterprise could lead to a successful career. (J. Pertagnol, IZES)
- “Work cooperatively”: Innovation is the result of a collective effort. Students should acquire the concept of teamwork and work in groups of different backgrounds. (D. Mengega, KEAN)
- “Start up your Farm”: Creating Students’ rural enterprises. Production of healthy and ecologically compatible products. Developing a spirit of independence, sharing ideas with others involved in the production process. Contacting successful practices. (Th. Krindas, University of the Aegean)
- “Think as a Leader”: Strategic thinking helps to develop the policy that an agrarian enterprise should follow, as well as formulating individual decisions. (Th. Krindas, University of the Aegean)
- “Learn from Stakeholders”: Students should be in a continuous direct contact with all those involved in the agricultural sector. They should develop and promote good agricultural practices. (A. Kofopoulou, KEAN)
You can look for all the presentations of Open Courses HERE.