Agroecology Course for Journalists and Communicators (Uganda)

The journalists and communicators also get exposed to the different Agroecological farming practices by small-scale farmers through the Agroecology Learning Journey. At the conclusion of the 12 weeks, the journalists and communicators participate in an in-person workshop in Kampala to share their experience and showcase their work and how they’ve advanced their knowledge.

The course begins with the Agroecology Introductory Workshop where journalists and communicators start their journey of learning about Agroecology and the latest techniques of reporting and communicating Agroecology. To ensure learning continues outside of workshops, participants will participate in bi-monthly webinars, carry out their writing projects, and have access to the online learning modules and materials.

Course Module

• These modules are designed to empower you into becoming the best Agroecology -focused journalist and communicator. At the end of each of these modules, an assessment will be conducted to measure your understanding of the module.
  • Module zero: Introduction to the course
    • In this introductory module, you will gain a comprehensive overview of the course’s background and objectives. It sets the stage for you to fully engage with and understand the material, ensuring you get the most out of your learning experience.
    • Module zero will be in-person and a knowledge assessment will be conducted for each participant in the cohort. This session is the Agroecology Introductory Workshop.
  • Module One: Introduction to the Concept of Agroecology
    • This module provides a foundational understanding of Agroecology, covering its definition as a science, practice, and movement. You’ll explore the historical context of Agroecology, its key elements and principles, and the concept of Food Sovereignty. Additionally, you’ll learn about the actions small-scale farmers take to uphold these principles.
    • Module one will be conducted online and an end-of-module test will be conducted to measure the level of understanding for all participants in the cohort.
  • Module Two: Agroecology in Practice
    • In this module, you’ll delve into Agroecological farming practices as implemented by small-scale farmers. You’ll learn about the benefits of Agroecology from their perspective and gain insight into the challenges faced when scaling up Agroecology in Uganda and Africa.
    • Additionally, before the end of this cohort, all participants will take part in the Agroecology Learning Workshop where you will be exposed to different practices and actions by small-scale farmers.
    • Module two will be conducted online and an end-of-module test will be conducted to measure the level of understanding for all participants in the cohort.
  • Module Three: Agroecology and Sustainable Food Systems
    • This module aims to deepen your understanding of how Agroecology intersects with agricultural policies. You’ll explore how Agroecology can contribute to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and other national and continental objectives. The module emphasizes the importance of integrating Agroecology into policies, strategies, and laws, particularly those focused on food systems. Additionally, you’ll examine the necessity of protecting small-scale farmers’ rights to land, seeds, natural resources, and markets to build resilient and sustainable food systems.
    • Module three will be conducted online and an end-of-module test will be conducted to measure the level of understanding for all participants in the cohort.
  • Module Four: Agroecology Movement
    • As you become part of the growing movement advocating for Agroecology in Uganda and Africa, this module will provide a comprehensive overview of the Agroecology movement. You’ll learn about the key influencers and drivers of this movement, along with the challenges and opportunities it faces in Africa. Furthermore, you’ll discover your role as a journalist or communicator in strengthening and advancing the Agroecology movement in the region.
    • Module four will be conducted online and an end-of-module test will be conducted to measure the level of understanding for all participants in the cohort.
  • Module Five: Communicating Agroecology
    • This specialized module focuses on the techniques and skills required to effectively communicate about Agroecology. You’ll learn how to identify, write, document, and publish compelling stories on Agroecology. The module also addresses the challenges of reporting on Agroecology and offers strategies to overcome them. Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to be inspired by guest journalists or communicators who will share their experiences. As part of this course, you will be required to write, document, or report on at least one Agroecology-related story.
    • Module five will be conducted online and an end-of-module test will be conducted to measure the level of understanding for all participants in the cohort. At this level, all participants should be able to present their selected agroecology stories for assessment.

Benefits

• During the 12 weeks course, journalists and communicators in the cohort will:
  • Receive a full scholarship for the course valued at USD 2,244.
  • Learn, Interact, and network with journalists and communicators from all over the country.
  • Get unlimited access to 50+ learning modules and support materials.
  • Interact with expert trainers who have facilitated high-level Agroecology training in Africa.
  • Earn a Certificate from the Agroecology School for Journalists and Communicators.

Eligibility Criteria

• All applicants must be working with a registered media organization/company in Uganda. Applicants must be able to communicate in the English language because the course is conducted in English.
• All selected participants will receive a full scholarship from the Agroecology School for Journalists and Communicators and Eastern and Southern Africa Small-scale Farmers Forum (ESAFF) Uganda. The scholarship covers travel and lodging costs, field visit costs, internet, and course materials.
• Participants who do not complete all course activities in the 12 weeks will not attend the Grand Finale and will not receive a certificate of completion.

Selection Criteria

• Applications are assessed on the applicant’s eligibility as outlined above and an applicant’s relevance to the course objectives. You must show that:
  • You’re working for a registered media organization/company in Uganda.
  • You have a recommendation from your organization to participate in this course.
  • You’re committed to personal and professional growth and learning.
  • You are passionate and committed to learning about Agroecology.
  • You have evidence of stories in the agriculture sectors published in the media house that is recommending you.

For more information, visit Agroecology School for Journalists and Communicators.