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Potato Sector Development for Emerging Markets
A historically important staple food, potatoes are gaining traction as a crop that also offers income opportunities for food processors and agribusinesses. The demand for potato food products in the developing world is increasing, and with that the number of people consuming potatoes worldwide. Potatoes have the potential to feed even more people in the future. In this course, we explore this potential, by covering the complete (seed) potato chain. We give insight into the latest developments in the potato sector and address the role of various stakeholders.
What will you learn?
Key course learnings include:
- In-depth knowledge of seed potato production systems and their application in different agro-ecological conditions in the world;
- Broad expertise in potato varieties, breeding and variety testing (DUS and VCU). Quality aspects of seed potatoes;
- Insights on main diseases and pests (and their management) in potato, with a focus on seed and soil-borne diseases;
- A look into the main agronomic practices (planting, fertiliser use, irrigation);
- Understanding the importance of crop rotation in emerging economies;
- Attention to the legal aspects of seed potatoes (PBR, phytosanitary regulations);
- The importance of harvest, storage and grading methods and pre-planting tuber treatment;
- An introduction to potato value chains & the business of potatoes along the value chain;
- The role of the public and private sectors in the sector development;
- Various practical demonstrations;
- Various visits to Dutch service providers along the value chain.
For whom is this course?
We invite practitioners, policymakers, researchers, and programme/ project managers who want to develop the potato industry in their home countries to join the course. Participants should be proficient in English, and have at least a BSc degree or an equivalent academic qualification and three years of work experience in potatoes or a related field.
Course programme in more detail
| Duration | 5 weeks |
| Study load | 80 hours |
| Programme | 2 online sessions per week (4h) |
| Break | No |
The potato crop is a major part of the world’s food supply. Currently the world’s fourth most important food crop, potatoes still have the potential to feed more people. However, apart from being a key staple, potatoes are also gaining traction as a crop that offers opportunities for food processors and agribusinesses. A prominent example of this multifaceted character is the Netherlands. Over the years, the country has become the world’s top producer and internationally renowned for its practical approaches and applications in the (seed) potato industry. Cooperation between public and private sectors has resulted in innovative developments in breeding and variety development, seed production, storage, seed certification and marketing. The insights gained, coupled with worldwide partnerships, provide new opportunities for the sustainable development of (seed) potato value chains in developing countries or countries with an economy in transition. Furthermore, thanks to its strong market position, the seed potato sector in the Netherlands contributes importantly to the Dutch economy.
Courses are currently online
Our courses are currently online. Check the course details for more information about the online course format.
Application for this course
On top of this page you can apply for the course 'Potato Sector Development for Emerging Markets'. Depending on your nationality, your organisation and the type of course you wish to join, your eligibility and the application procedures may differ. Find out more about the requirements and the application process.