AMP assumes NO knowledge of agriculture on the part of registrants, only the interest and desire to start a successful commercial farming operation. (The emphasis is on COMMERCIAL farming as distinct from gardening or subsistence farming.) The course is designed to train participants to become competent agricultural entrepreneurs. To that end, a good fraction of the available modals cover the BUSINESS of agriculture and helps trainees learn how to run successful agricultural businesses. The buyback option mentioned earlier is intended to ensure that there is an available offtaker such that trainees become successful commercial farm operators as soon as possible. (The offtaker is provided as an OPTION. Trainees do NOT have to utilize that service and may sell their produce where, when, and to whom they freely choose.)
Incoming students are expected to have a grasp of basic mathematics and rudimentary writing skills. This is necessary to enable students to complete the writing and basic calculations involved in the development and management of their fledgling enterprises.
The outline for the Agricultural Microentrepreneur Program is shown below (broken down by month):
Track 1: Root Crops and Staple Foods
Month 1: Introduction to Agriculture and Crop Selection
Week 1-2: Basics of Agriculture and Crop Selection
- Introduction to farming practices, soil types, and climate considerations.
- Understanding the importance of crop selection and suitability for the local environment.
Week 3-4: Introduction to Root Crops and Staple Foods
- Overview of popular root crops and staple foods in West Africa (e.g., cassava, corn, yams).
- Factors influencing crop selection, such as market demand and soil requirements.
Month 2: Weed Management and Soil Health
Week 1-2: Weed Identification and Control Techniques
- Identifying common weeds in West Africa and understanding their impact on crops.
- Implementing cultural, mechanical, and chemical weed control methods.
Week 3-4: Soil Health and Fertility Management
- Understanding soil structure, nutrients, and pH levels.
- Techniques for soil testing, fertilization, and organic matter management.
Month 3: Pricing of Agricultural Inputs and Labor
Week 1-2: Cost Analysis of Agricultural Inputs
- Understanding the cost factors of seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, and equipment.
- Evaluating the quality and effectiveness of agricultural inputs.
Week 3-4: Labor Management and Cost Calculation
- Estimating labor requirements for various farm operations.
- Calculating labor costs and optimizing workforce efficiency.
Month 4: Pricing of Agricultural Produce and Market Access
Week 1-2: Market Analysis and Crop Pricing
- Conducting market research to understand demand and pricing trends.
- Strategies for setting competitive prices for agricultural produce.
Week 3-4: Market Access and Distribution Channels
- Identifying potential buyers and market opportunities.
- Exploring different distribution channels, including local markets and cooperatives.
- Potential export opportunities for agricultural products.
Month 5: Crop Management and Pest Control
Week 1-2: Crop Care and Management Practices
- Understanding crop growth stages and cultural practices (e.g., planting, irrigation, and pruning).
- Implementing strategies to optimize crop yield and quality.
Week 3-4: Pest and Disease Management
- Identifying common pests and diseases affecting root crops and staple foods.
- Integrated pest management (IPM) techniques for effective pest control.
Month 6: Harvesting, Post-Harvest Handling, and Business Skills
Week 1-2: Harvesting and Post-Harvest Handling
- Best practices for harvesting, handling, and storing root crops and staple foods.
- Minimizing post-harvest losses through proper handling and storage techniques.
Week 3-4: Introduction to Business Skills for Farmers
- Basics of record-keeping, financial management, and budgeting.
- Exploring opportunities for value addition and diversification in agriculture.
Track 2: Vegetables and Greens
The structure for Track 2 will follow a similar outline to Track 1, with modules tailored to the specific needs of vegetable and greens growers. Topics will include crop selection, weed management, soil health, pricing of agricultural inputs and labor, pricing of agricultural produce, crop management, pest control, and business skills. The content will be adapted to address the unique characteristics and requirements of vegetable and greens production in West Africa.
By providing comprehensive training in these key areas, both tracks aim to equip new farmers in West Africa with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in their chosen agricultural enterprises.