Course Description

"Feeding a Hungry Planet: Agriculture, Nutrition, and Sustainability" is an innovative and comprehensive course that delves into the complex world of global food security, sustainable agriculture, and nutrition. This intermediate-level course explores the multifaceted challenges of feeding the world's growing population while preserving our planet's resources. Through a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical case studies, students will gain a deep understanding of food systems, agricultural practices, and the intricate relationships between nutrition, economics, and environmental sustainability.

What Students Will Learn

• The evolution of modern agriculture and its impact on global food challenges
• The concept of food security and its relationship to poverty, inequality, and nutrition
• Sustainable intensification of agricultural systems and innovative farming practices
• The role of agriculture in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals
• Strategies for rural development and poverty alleviation
• The impact of climate change on agriculture and mitigation techniques
• The importance of food governance and international trade in shaping global food systems
• Practical approaches to reducing food losses and waste

Pre-requisites

While there are no specific prerequisites for this course, a basic understanding of environmental studies, economics, or agriculture would be beneficial. Students should have an interest in global issues, sustainability, and a willingness to engage with interdisciplinary concepts.

Course Coverage

• Global food challenges and case studies (rice, smallholder farming, livestock, aquaculture)
• The emergence of modern agriculture and its risks
• Agriculture's role in sustainable development
• Food systems for nutritional security and better health
• Sustainable intensification of agricultural systems
• Climate change adaptation and mitigation in agriculture
• Breeding, genetics, and crop protection
• Rural development and poverty alleviation
• International trade and food governance
• Pathways to change and monitoring progress in agriculture

Who This Course Is For

• Graduate and advanced undergraduate students in agriculture, economics, and international development
• Nutritionists and agriculture professionals seeking the latest developments in the field
• Sustainable development practitioners working in poverty, nutrition, and agriculture sectors
• Private actors interested in social entrepreneurship and supporting local agriculture

Real-World Applications

Graduates of this course will be equipped to address real-world challenges in food security, sustainable agriculture, and nutrition. They can apply their knowledge to:

• Develop sustainable farming practices and improve agricultural productivity
• Design nutrition interventions and food security programs in developing countries
• Implement climate-smart agriculture techniques to mitigate environmental impact
• Advise on agricultural policies and regulations at local, national, and international levels
• Create innovative solutions for reducing food waste and improving supply chains
• Engage in social entrepreneurship to support local agriculture and rural development
• Contribute to research and development in agricultural technology and breeding programs