Smallholder engagement in seed production

These farmer seed producers can be organised in different forms, they may operate on their own or in groups, and they may have become seed producers by themselves or through targeted support of an external GO or NGO. These seed producers are considered to have strong potential to reach those farmers that other seed providers cannot reach. They also are important vehicles for local agricultural development and empowerment. Much is being expected and assumed about the role that these seed producers can have, but little systematic documentation provides evidence of that role.

In SD=HD program, coordinated by Oxfam Novib (https://sdhsprogram.org) and see this webinar), several farmer-producing groups are active, i.e. Guatemala, Nepal, Vietnam, Zimbabwe. We look for students who can help these farmer groups to document how they are faring. Time frame: September - December. Best suited to an internship project.

Understanding seed and variety issues is a pré. An excellent opportunity for plant science students to have a developing-country and practice experience.

Contact at WUR: Conny.Almekinders@wur.nl, Fleur.Kilwinger@wur.nl, Knowledge, Technology and Innovation group. (Put joanne.leerlooijer in the CC!)