After navigating through a few hurdles, the APPEAR project SOAA (Strengthening Organic Agriculture in Armenia) has successfully completed its first full project year (1 March 2022 – 28 February 2023). A new project lead was welcomed: Lusine Nalbandyan who has agroecological roots, runs her own organic composting company and is head of Organic Armenia, rooting our project in pragmatism and unwavering passion for organic practices.
Among notable achievements, the project proudly celebrated the graduation of the first cohort of the Organic Agriculture Master’s Program (OAMP) at ANAU. This significant milestone marks a pivotal step towards establishing a robust foundation for organic agriculture education in Armenia. ANAU hosted a visit from BOKU coordinator Milena Klimek, where they were able to identify the current possibilities and needs for improvements to the OAMP. After reconvening the stakeholder committee and gathering the teaching team again, they were able to improve the existing OAMP to a competitive program with similar length to others at ANAU as well as the prospect of being eligible for governmental subsidies.
One of the primary challenges has been a shortfall in projected funds on the Armenian side of the project, which jeopardizes the quantity and quality of project outputs. As they wait for possible outside support, the receival of Erasmus+ mobility grants has allowed the project team to alleviate some immediate financial tensions which occurred due to exchange rate turbulences and inflation.
In the coming year, they project team plans to seize the opportunity to participate in two staff training programs focused on project management and scientific field trials. These programs are integral to the project core areas, namely institutional amplification and the development of the student organic research farm, “Akunq”. While the project team initiated the initial planning phase of “Akunq”, they recognize that strategic scientific field trials serve as cornerstones in fulfilling the farm's purpose and mission.
Spring 2023 marked a significant milestone in the development of “Akunq” as it successfully completed the apricot orchard section. The project team planted 100 new apricot trees, enriching the landscape with their vibrant presence. Additionally, they have diligently sown perennial legumes, a strategic endeavor aimed at enhancing the soil's quality and fertility. These initiatives underscore the commitment to sustainable practices and the long-term success of the “Akunq” project. The project team looks forward to moving quickly into the planting season at “Akunq” farm and to two more exchange visits in 2023.
As the project team reflects on the accomplishments, navigate through challenges, and anticipates the exciting developments on the horizon, it extends heartfelt gratitude to all those who have supported and contributed to the SOAA project. Together, they are making significant strides towards realizing their vision of a sustainable and thriving organic agricultural sector in Armenia.
Check out the promotion video of the Organic Master Program in Yerevan (in Armenian language) that was broadcasted on the national television channel on 28 June 2023.