February 20, 2026
Experiences from the modernAKIS Network: Latvia’s Long-Term Vision for Stronger Advisory Services
As part of the ongoing exchange of experiences within the modernAKIS network, this article shares insights from Mārtiņš Cimermanis, Chairman of the Board of the Latvian Rural Advisory and Training Centre (LLKC). His career spans Latvia’s transition into the European Union, the professionalisation of advisory services, and the rise of digital and AI‑driven tools — all while keeping one principle at the centre: invest in people first. Drawing on many years of work in rural advisory services, he reflects on how his path with LLKC began and how the role of advisors continues to evolve within today’s AKIS landscape.
A Career Rooted in Latvia’s Transformation
Cimermanis’ journey with LLKC began during a defining moment in Latvia’s history. EU accession reshaped the country’s agricultural sector, demanding new skills, new competitiveness, and a new openness to knowledge. As a young graduate of the Latvian University of Agriculture — and a farmer himself — he saw first-hand how essential it was for rural communities to stay connected to broader European developments.
His own farm became a demonstration site for new methods, bringing him closer to advisors and revealing the power of practical, trusted guidance. What began as a personal experience soon grew into a long-term leadership role.
“I have always believed that Latvia’s agriculture can be competitive and resilient if our farmers have knowledge and trusted partners beside them,” he reflects. “This work has never been routine — it demands constant evolution and creativity.”
Investing in Advisors: Latvia’s Strategic Choice
One of LLKC’s long‑standing priorities has been investing in advisor training. Over the years, tens of thousands of euros have been dedicated to strengthening the competencies of advisors, ensuring they remain well‑prepared to support farmers. For Mārtiņš, this focus on people has always been essential. “A holistic approach has become essential,” Cimermanis explains. “Farmers need someone who speaks their language and helps them navigate this complex landscape.” The risk of losing well-trained staff has never discouraged him. “People grow and try new things — that’s normal and healthy. What matters is that they feel valued and see real opportunities to earn, develop, and see the results of their work.”
Knowledge Transfer in a Fast‑Changing AKIS Landscape
Cimermanis’ reflections resonate strongly with the ambitions of modernAKIS, a project dedicated to the modernisation of agriculture through more efficient and effective Agricultural Knowledge and Innovation Systems (AKIS). The initiative aims to strengthen the capacities of AKIS actors, improve governance, and support the transition toward more sustainable management and use of natural resources in farming and forestry.
In this context, Cimermanis highlights a challenge shared across Europe: farmers face increasing workloads, shrinking time, and a growing complexity of information. Advisors therefore play a crucial role in ensuring that knowledge is not only available but also usable.
“That’s why I believe an advisor’s role today is to be closer to the farmer than ever. Not just online, but truly present — knowing what’s happening in the fields, in the barns, in the accounts. A good advisor becomes a strategic partner, able to stay a step ahead and help predict what comes next.” he says.
Advisors in the Age of Digitalisation and AI
Cimermanis recognises that digital tools and artificial intelligence are becoming increasingly present in agriculture, but he sees them as support tools rather than replacements for human judgement. “AI will handle data processing, economic analysis, reports, comparisons. But decisions will always be made by people,” he notes.
For him, trust remains at the heart of advisory work. Advisors must be competent, motivated, and supported so they can respond effectively to farmers’ needs.
“I see the advisor as a bridge — connecting science, industry, and the real-life world of the farm. Without that bridge, knowledge stays theoretical. But when the advisor is there to translate, adapt, and guide — that’s when we see real, lasting impact.”
A Shared Mission Across Europe
Cimermanis’ reflections contribute to the wider exchange of experiences promoted within modernAKIS, where countries explore how to strengthen their Agricultural Knowledge and Innovation Systems and learn from each other’s approaches to advisory work, collaboration, and knowledge sharing. His experience shows that while tools and technologies evolve, the foundation of effective advisory work remains human — built on trust, presence, and the ability to support farmers with competence and confidence.
This article is based on an interview conducted by Dr. Gintarė Kučinskienė, Project Manager at the Development Office of the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences and national coordinator of the modernAKIS project in Lithuania.
