Agroforestry training at postgraduate level in Sub-Saharan Africa: solutions to challenges in curriculum delivery

Abstract

In 2005, the African Network for Agriculture, Agroforestry and Natural Resources Education (ANAFE) supported a survey of postgraduate programmes in Agroforestry (AF) at 20 selected universities in sub-Saharan Africa. The objective was to assess the AF content and delivery challenges, and work out strategic solutions with stakeholders. We surveyed five, six, three and six universities in Southern Africa, East and Central Africa, Sahel and Africa Humid Tropics, respectively. Questionnaire data were complemented by analysis of available publications about the universities and interviews with relevant faculty. A total of 160 lecturers, 36 key university administrators, 136 students and 50 potential employers were interviewed. The results showed that 80% of the institutions surveyed offer AF related MSc programmes with a two-year duration. Most programmes draw on faculty from different departments. The programmes range from stand alone AF courses to AF incorporated into other degree programmes, in all cases the thesis research topic is on AF. The overall teaching quality was good, with a caveat regarding experience of faculty. Student assessments were through coursework, examinations, seminars, and thesis write-upEmployers recognise that students trained in AF have a holistic view to smallholder farming problems. Challenges being faced include limited equipment and scholarship support and a slow pace in the inclusion of AF into national agricultural policies. The potential for expanding AF postgraduate education is good but more work is needed to improve the quality of delivery of programmes. Further support is necessary in expanding options for experiential learning; faculty skills upgrading; and further learning materials development