The significance of seed science and technology in agriculture, as well as the seed industry, cannot be overstated. Seeds serve as the fundamental building blocks of agriculture, making it imperative for the industry to have access to skilled professionals proficient in improved seed production technology and seed business management. Unfortunately, the sector is currently facing a setback due to a scarcity of professionals in the seed industry who possess the expertise to propel it to greater heights.
Recognizing the – trained human resources demand gaps, the Ethiopia Netherlands Seed Partnership (ENSP) initiated discussion with Haramaya and Bahir Dar universities to explore the possibility to revise the existing curriculum on seed science and technology.
The existing curriculum of Bahir Dar university, developed eight years ago, and has since graduated 44 students, 12 of which are female. The program however, does not encompass emerging developments in the seed industry. Hence, the university decided to review the curriculum for their MSc program in Seed Science and Technology (SST) with the aims to enhance the current curriculum and align it with the latest developments in the seed industry.
To revise the curriculum, a tracer study was conducted, which involved interviewing 30 alumni and 15 employers of SST graduates. The study concluded that the existing curriculum did not fulfil the knowledge, skill, and attitude demands of graduates and employers to a level of high satisfaction. The study also highlighted the high demand for skills in seed production management, seed quality maintenance, seed regulations and governance and seed business management.
Based on the findings of the tracer study, the university revised the curriculum and presented the results to stakeholders at the national curriculum review workshop, which was held on July 1st, 2023 at Bahir Dar. Senior professional with extensive knowledge in the seed sector reviewed the revised curriculum and presented for the audience.
Dr. Amsalu Ayana, one of the reviewers, appreciated the review time of the curriculum as the landscape of Ethiopian seed sector has changed over the last 8 years in terms of new seed policy & several seed-based proclamations, regulations & directives, direct seed marketing expansion, involving agro-dealership, more public & private investments and more favourable enabling environment. He reviewed the revised curriculum from seed value chain perspective and commented areas not well addressed, courses to be added, modified, deleted etc.
According to Dr. Zewdie Bishaw, one of the reviewers, the suggested courses are comprehensive and well-aligned with the intended objectives and competencies of the modules. The course descriptions, delivery, and combination of theory and practice are commendable. However, there may be concerns regarding balancing theory with practice due to the extensive course contents and practical work envisioned in the program, as well as the availability of facilities. This feedback highlights the need for careful consideration and planning to ensure that the program effectively combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience for optimal learning outcomes.
During the concluding remark, the Agricultural college dean Professor Getachew said that the Seed Science and Technology curriculum review presents an opportunity for the university to enhance its curriculum and better prepare the students for the future of seed science and technology. It is necessary to keep pace with developments in the seed industry and ensure that the curriculum remains relevant and up-to-date. By doing so, the university can equip students with the latest knowledge and skills necessary for success in this dynamic field. The ENSP project and technical team are to be commended for taking this forward and bringing a consolidated result. The active involvement of all participants is also appreciated. The professor urged the technical committee to incorporate relevant comments and suggestions and present the final version to the university senate for approval.
In conclusion, Bahir Dar University’s curriculum review workshop for the MSc program in Seed Science and Technology is a step towards enhancing their curriculum to align with the latest developments in the seed industry. The university’s efforts to adapt and equip students with the latest knowledge and skills will undoubtedly contribute to producing graduates who are well-prepared for the future of Seed Science and Technology.
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