The National Gene Bank announced the installation of three field schools in the governorates of Sousse (M’saken), Sfax (El Hzeg) and Bizerte (Frétissa), in partnership with the Tunisian Association for Sustainable Agriculture and with funding from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO).
These field schools, dedicated to seeds and agricultural genetics, are located in the heart of agricultural plots and offer a practical training environment. Farmers, students and technicians discover the characteristics of different plant varieties and learn the basic principles of genetics applied to agriculture, including resistance, productivity and crop quality.
This initiative is based on a participatory approach aimed at encouraging the sharing of knowledge and experiences between stakeholders in the field. It contributes to strengthening local capacities in terms of conservation and promotion of traditional seeds, while promoting sustainable agricultural practices that respect environmental balances. These actions also help improve productivity, strengthen the resilience of agricultural systems to climate change and support food security.
Identify diseases and pests
Participants will learn how to select and improve seeds locally, identify diseases and pests and understand their impact on different varieties. This approach is part of the program “Strengthening agricultural biodiversity through the multiplication of local seeds for cereals and fodder and the adoption of ecological agricultural practices”.
According to the National Gene Bank, the first training sessions will begin in January and continue regularly throughout the agricultural season. The institution thus reaffirms its commitment to supporting farmers and preserving local genetic heritage, guaranteeing its continuity in agricultural systems and the protection of national genetic capital.
