This academy explores the complex dynamics at play within agri-food systems by focusing on the global coffee value chain, and the role that Switzerland and Kenya play therein.
What is an agri-food system and how does it function on a global scale? Who are the relevant stakeholders? What market mechanisms are at play? What individual-level and policy-level measures are needed to make this system more sustainable?
In this academy, offered by the Swiss Study Foundation and Aiducation Switzerland, the participants will gain in-depth insights into an agri-food system by holistically exploring the global coffee value chain.
In various pre-academy workshops, we will focus on core characteristics, actors and challenges of agri-food systems, explore the dynamics of the global coffee value chain as well as the role of Switzerland and Kenya within this system, and deal with the topic of sustainability of agri-food systems. Additionally, participants will gain insights into cross-cultural learning and communication.
During the on-site part of the academy in Nairobi (Kenya) and surroundings, participants will further their knowledge by means of field visits to actors within the coffee chain, e.g. producers, processors, roasters and traders. Furthermore, they will work in cross-cultural teams to come up with innovative solutions to grapple with key challenges and ensure a more sustainable coffee value chain.
Coordination: Cynthia Brauchli, Aiducation Switzerland | Nicholas Arnold, Swiss Study Foundation
Administration: Nathalie Ellington, Swiss Study Foundation
Dates: participation in all programm elements (online & on-site) is mandatory
- Pre-academy workshops (online): March 4th, 11th and 18th 2025 (approx. 16h00 to 19h00)
- On-site visit (Nairobi, Kenya): March 22nd-30th 2025
- Post-academy workshop (online): to be defined
Participants: 15 Swiss students (members of the Swiss study foundation) and 15 Kenyan students (Alumni of the Aiducation programme). To ensure similar age ranges between the groups, Swiss students in their Bachelor studies have priority.
Costs: 600 CHF, (incl. flights, accommodation, excursions and most meals). In exceptional cases, this fee may be waived.
Further remarks:
- Insurance and sufficient medical cover (incl. precautionary measures such as vaccinations) is the participants’ own responsibility.
- Students travelling to Kenya will have to organize the visa themselves.
- Costs for the flight and the visa fees are covered by the organisers. Cost for the individual medical precautions are covered by the individuals.
- Please note that living standards in Kenya are different form the ones in Switzerland. Participants will be accommodated in a local hostel.
