National Organic Training Skillnet (NOTS) is currently seeking tenders from higher education institutions to develop and deliver a Master of Science (MSc) programme in agroforestry.

Agroforestry is a collective name for land-use practices where trees are combined with crops and/or animals on the same unit of land.

The practice involves “significant ecological or economic interactions” between the trees and the agricultural components.

Established in 2007, NOTS is a not-for-profit network that offer high-quality, low-cost training for the expanding organic sector throughout Ireland. It is co-funded by Skillnet Ireland and network companies.

According to the tender documents, the new programme will focus on agroforestry practices that suitable for Irish conditions.

There will be a strong emphasis on integrating agroforestry into agricultural systems to promote sustainable land use, biodiversity, and climate mitigation.

The aim is to equip graduates with the knowledge and skills to assist farmers in developing plans and be qualified/approved to apply for the relevant agroforestry grant from the Department of Agriculture, Forestry, and Marine (DAFM).

Students will be provided with the necessary knowledge to guide farmers in the integration of agroforestry on to farms.

The successful institution will develop and deliver the programme in collaboration with key stakeholders, including DAFM, government agencies, industry experts, and research institutions.

The part-time course will cover sustainable agriculture, agroforestry systems, climate adaptation, biodiversity, and Irish land-use policy.

NOTS noted that the awarding of successful tenders is subject to funding. The deadline for submission of tenders is 5:00p.m on March 25, 2025.