Those interested in preparing for short/long-term involvement in agricultural development internationally are encouraged to participate in this one-week course held two times a year. Course participants will gain an introduction to aspects of poverty and community development and an orientation to ECHO. They will also receive instruction on proven agricultural principles/practices and practical techniques, systems and technologies to meet agricultural and nutritional needs of small-scale, impoverished farmers. There will also be time for hands-on work on the farm, visits with staff, and study in the library. Course content is presented from a biblical perspective.
This course will especially benefit those who are considering short- or long-term involvement in international agricultural development work. It can also be of benefit to those who have been on the field doing development work for a few years but who would like to take a step back and re-evaluate their approach. Those who could benefit from this course include short-term or career missionaries, international project volunteers (e.g. Peace Corps), leaders of relief-oriented organizations, or missions committee leaders of churches involved in agricultural projects overseas.
This course covers a broad range of topics relevant to those starting out in agricultural development in a tropical environment. The purpose of this class is to expose you to several different ideas and concepts. Although a significant amount of time will be spent looking at examples on the ECHO Farm, given the breadth of topics covered, extensive hands-on farm work should not be an expectation of taking this course.
The course is taught in English
Registration Fee: $645.00
Registration fees include:
Registration does not include:
You can arrive on July 23rd and stay through July 28th.
Roland Bunch wrote a book called "Two Ears of Corn", which
gives a great overview of concepts to consider in undertaking any
development project. (This book is currently out of print.)
"Agriculture Options for the Small Scale Farmer" published by
ECHO. It is a compilation of information available in the first 100
issues of ECHO Development Notes.
Amaranth to Zai Holes can be accessed online; it summarizes
information from the first 51 issues of our quarterly publication, ECHO
Development Notes---the link is:
Amaranth to Zai Holes
Payment for ECHO classes is required at the time of registration. Due
to the nature of the class, we require at least 2-weeks notice of
cancellation to receive a full refund of your fees. If less than 2-weeks
notice is given a refund will not be issued.
These courses are interest-driven, therefore we reserve the right to
cancel an course due to lack of interest. Should a cancellation be
necessary, we will do so two weeks before the first day of class.
It is always a good idea to bring a jacket or sweater. More than likely, though, highs will be in the 80's and 90's for both the May and Aug dates. As there will be time built in for being on the farm and possibly working with our interns, bring a set of clothes that you don't mind getting dirty. A hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, water bottle and insect repellent would be good to include in your luggage. It may also be helpful to bring a flashlight to use in walking around campus after dark.
