Accreditation of Agronomists
ASIDA with support from the Senior Agronomist from AgriVentis through face to face, and Agronomists from Equinom and Sesaco through on-line mode will provide training and accreditation for agronomists to support growing of sesame in specific geographic locations across the north of Australia.
ASIDA, in conjunction with AgriVentis Technologies Ltd and Central Queensland University (CQU), will conduct upskilling courses for agronomists to provide them with the technical knowledge and practical skills required to assist growers achieve more reliable and profitable sesame production.
The accreditation process involves four key steps:
- A day technical workshop which addresses the key issues identified by the industry as the main prerequisites for more reliable and profitable sesame production.
- Detailed in field monitoring of at least two commercial sesame crops, where the agronomist must demonstrate they can apply the technical skills and processes covered in the initial workshop. This is the auditable component of the course and is the main prerequisite for certification to meet the industry guidelines.
- In-crop training sessions, agronomists are supported by in-crop training sessions on insect scouting techniques and management, disease diagnosis, as well as weed challenges.
- Ongoing technical support on current research and reassessment of best management practices within the sesame industry. The network of certified agronomists is also kept informed of any new and emerging issues within the industry, e.g. new pesticide registrations or permits.
To enquire about the next Sesame Training Course please contact Andrew McDonald, Research Agronomist of AgriVentis Technologies Ltd.