Extension and advisory services are crucial in keeping current farmers and future farmers interested in producing food and contributing to food security. However, extension and advisory agents face similar challenges to young farmers in entering and staying in the sector, including access to opportunities, credibility, and support.

To tackle the problem and its root causes, EUFRAS has partnered up with YPARD (Young Professionals FOR Young Professionals for Agricultural Development) to bring forth the EUFRAS-YPARD Young Advisors Mentorship and Training Program  which aims to encourage youth toward a career in extension services and more specifically, to understand the value of being in RAS and their contribution to food security.

This program, which will launch in November 2022, will offer training and mentoring to young advisors in the European region with a focus on sustainable and just food systems. The benefits of the program include the opportunity to practice hard and soft skills that can offer young advisory agents the tools to have an effective and rewarding career in extension and advisory services. Additionally, participants will receive the CECRA (Certificate for European Consultants in Rural Areas) Full Certificate.

Both YPARD and EUFRAS are thrilled to embark on this collaborative project to ensure that young professionals have the tools they need to thrive in today’s competitive market.

For more information please contact the YPARD-EUFRAS coordinator, Valentina Martinez-Salazar (valentina.martinez@ypard.net)

To apply for this program please send the below materials to Līga Cimermane (liga.cimermane@llkc.lv) by September 25th, 2022:

• Updated CV
• Letter of support from employer 
• Motivation letter highlighting career interests

The program combines classical trainings with a mentoring approach and networking elements. The program offers space for 20 Young Advisors (Mentees) and 10 Mentors. The program’s working language is English.