The Advance Certificate (Online) Course on ”Pastures, Pastoralism, and Rangeland Governance” is an independent but integrated part of a complete package of curriculum. This is a comprehensive course program designed to explore the critical aspects of managing pastures and rangelands in the context of the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists 2026. This specialized course delves into the intricate relationship between pastures, grazing resources, sustainable pastoralism, rangeland ecosystems, and effective governance strategies. As the world recognizes the importance of rangelands and the livelihoods of pastoralists, this course aims to equip students and participants with the knowledge and skills needed to address the challenges and opportunities associated with dynamic landscapes in changing environments.
Those who are interested in 1st part, i.e., Online Advance Certificate, they need to complete 3 weeks Online Course, plus 3 weeks Case Study Research & Project Writing. Those who wish to undertake 2nd part, i.e. Practitioner Diploma (Field Training), need to undergo the Online Advance Certificate part compulsorily.
Course Outline | 6 Weeks | 60 Hours course, 60 Hours field work
This part of the curriculum will take place through the interactive online platform. As soon as the student/participant registers the course, the information will automatically be sent through registered email. Detailed structure, lessons, reading materials, assignments, discussions forum and Q&A sessions will be available on the online platform www.tgiversity.org.
Course Structure
Unit 1: Pastures and Grasslands [Online 1 Week; 18 Hours]
- Pasture and Grassland Ecosystems
- Pastures and Pastoralist Communities: Case Studies
- Pasture Biodiversity and Ecology of Species
- Participatory Pasture Conservation
- Natural Livestock Farming and Grazing Management
- Sustainable Livelihood of Shepherds and Pasture Tourism
Unit 2: Transhumance and Pastoralism [Online 1 Week; 18 Hours]
- Transhumance and Logic of Mobility
- Pastoralism in the Context of Mountains
- Pastoralism and Development: A critical debate
- Traveling through Landscapes
- Traditional Ecological Knowledge of Herders
- Climate Change Adaptation Measures by Local Pastoral Communities
Unit 3: Rangeland Governance and Policies [Online 1 Week; 18 Hours]
- Problems and Issues Challenging the Rangelands
- Rangelands Fragmentation, Enclosure and Impacts
- Governance of Pastures and Grasslands: Role of Local Institutions
- Improving Governance of Pastoral Lands
- EU Common Agriculture Policy and Rangeland Governance
- World Movements and Rangelands Governance
*Special Unit: Case Study Research & Project Writing [Online 3 Weeks; 60 Hours]
- Three optional topics will be suggested by the student/participant and one will be chosen in consultation with the Course Coordinator.
- Research Methodology reading materials will be sent to all the students.
- Periodic Guidance will be given through interactive one-to-one sessions on Zoom.
Outcome of the Course
By the end of this course, students and participants will be equipped with a robust understanding of the intricate interplay between pastures, pastoralism, and rangeland governance. This knowledge will empower them to contribute effectively to the sustainable development and conservation of rangeland ecosystems, aligning with the goals of the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists 2026. Join us on this transformative journey towards a more resilient and harmonious coexistence with our rangelands and pastoralist communities.
Further Contact
https://grassrootsinstitute.ca/courses