Quality Seed Production Training Course (Africa)

Course Description

Quality seeds are the foundation of successful rice farming. In this course, the participants will discover the characteristics of quality seeds and why using quality seeds is the secret to improving rice harvests. This intensive 1-week training is designed to provide participants with the essential knowledge and skills on seed systems. Participants will examine the science, management, and production of quality rice seeds, seed certification, seed control, seed health, and relevant laws. They will be engaged in demonstrations, hands-on activities, site visits, and classroom and in-field discussions with IRRI’s rice seed experts, as well as another sector expert. 

Course Objectives

By the end of the training course, participants should be able to: 

• Understand the importance of seed systems and quality seed production; 

• Exposed and refreshed on seed certification, seed control, seed health and seed production technologies; 

• Examine the processes in producing quality seed and acquire techniques, methodologies, and standards in quality seed production; and 

• Demonstrate the applications of quality seed. 

• Be able to plan seed production based on demand forecasting for the different seed classes (basic, certified, etc.). 

• Know the different requirement for seed production between hybrid rice seeds and inbreds 

Key Modules:

• Module 1: Introduction to Rice Seed Systems 
• Module 2: Understanding Seed Quality & Basics 
• Module 3: Production Planning & Business Management 
• Module 4: Pre-Planting Operations 
• Module 5: Plant Establishment 
• Module 6: Crop Management 
• Module 7: Harvest Management 
• Module 8: Post-Harvest: Drying and Storage 
• Module 9: Processing, Testing, and Certification
• Module 10: Practical Sessions
  • Seed classes and seed production planning
  • Hybrid vs Inbred seed production requirements

Expected Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, participants will be able to: 

• Explain the principles of quality rice seed systems and production.  
• Apply best practices for quality seed production and management.  
• Plan seed production based on demand forecasting and seed classes.  
• Differentiate hybrid and inbred rice seed production requirements.  
• Implement seed quality assurance, testing, certification, and seed health standards.  
• Apply practical skills in seed production, processing, and storage through hands-on learning. 

Learning Modality

The course will be delivered face-to-face through activities involving lectures, hands-on training, and field visits.

Target Audience

The course is intended for professionals and individuals involved in the agricultural industry, specifically those working in seed production, seed distribution, and seed entrepreneurship.