October 24, 2024
AKIS in Action Networking Event: Powering up advisors’ knowledge through peer exchange
As part of our ongoing efforts in modernAKIS, to interconnect Agricultural Knowledge and Innovation Systems actors across Europe this event highlighted successful experiences and activities in networks and projects that helped to raise advisors knowledge through peer-to-peer exchange and strengthen the advisors’ capacity and community.
Jeroen Nagel from Regieorganisatie GLB, the Dutch CAP Network discussed the current Dutch National Innovation System, its important pillars, challenges and key-functions. He explained the structure of national Communities of Practice (CoP) and their members and emphasized the collaboration with modernAKIS.
Paul Daniels from the Association of Agricultural Business Advisors (VAB) another speaker from the Netherlands addressed the function of the VAB. He noted that the VAB currently unites around 650 advisors from various private and public organizations and companies, emphasizing its important role in the Dutch advisory landscape.
Simona Cristiano from CREA, Italy, introduced an innovative peer-to-peer learning approach developed by the i2connect project. This approach focuses on enhancing collaboration and knowledge sharing among advisors implemented on national and international level.
Peter Paree from the Southern Agriculture and Horticulture Association (ZLTO), Netherlands, highlighted the impact of cross visits, which he experienced in different projects like FAIRshare (which focuses on using digital tools) and i2connect (which promotes interactive innovation). He affirmed that cross-visits inspire people, give experience and knowledge; they are a start for a bigger network.
Participants were keenly engaged in the topic of training and accreditation systems related to the VAB in the Netherlands, but also interested in peer2peer exchange tools and in participating in future cross-visits. In the Q&A-session, there was also a focus on resources available to advisors, including payment structures and the types of advisory support offered. The conversation included discussions about AKIS funding measures and the role of the CAP networks to support the advisory managers and encourage advisory organizations.
For additional insights into the event, feel free to click on the links below for the videos and presentations:
