INNOVATIVE SCENARIOS FOR SOCIO-ECONOMIC TRANSFORMATION OF RURAL AREAS - ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND COMPETITIVE AGRICULTURE

Duration (Physical part): 20 – 24 October 2025

Name of the Department at Križevci university of Applied Sciences: Department for management in agriculture

ECTS Credit Value: 5

Overview of the module content:

The blended intensive programme (BIP) entitled “Innovative Scenarios for Socio-economic Transformation of Rural Areas - Entrepreneurship and Competitive Agriculture", organized by the Križevci University of Applied Sciences aims to address the critical intersection of application of cutting-edge, scientific and engineering advancements to revolutionize food production and address challenges in the agri-food sector. This programme brings together students, researchers, and professionals from diverse disciplines to explore how technologies like AI, robotics, biotechnology, and advanced materials, all aimed at improving efficiency, sustainability, and resilience in farming by re-designing and re-engineering business models and value chains, developing new clusters and networks, or establishing new relationships or collaborations between public, private and third sector organisations. Through a combination of online preparatory sessions, on-site workshops, and field activities, participants will gain hands-on experience. By integrating theoretical knowledge and practical applications, this programme aspires to create a multidisciplinary framework for addressing socio-economic transformation of rural areas through entrepreneurship by achieving competitive agriculture.

Participants will learn to:

a)         Promote Awareness

Increase understanding of the role of Entrepreneurship in Agriculture and Competitive Agriculture

b)         Develop insight for possibility of practical application

Provide participants with insight into the meaning and factors of deep tech solutions for agricultural production.

c)         Encourage Multidisciplinary Collaboration

Facilitate collaboration among students and professionals from various fields, fostering the exchange of knowledge and innovative ideas.

d)        Bridge Theory and Practice

Combine theoretical concepts with practical applications by organizing field activities, case studies, and real-world problem-solving sessions.

e)         Address Global Challenges

Explore strategies which enable socio-economic transformation of rural areas, achieving high standards of sustainability and sustainable growth.

f)         Foster International Cooperation

Strengthen international academic and professional networks by engaging participants from diverse cultural and educational backgrounds.

g)         Prepare Future Leader

 Equip participants with the skills and knowledge needed to lead initiatives in innovative agriculture entrepreneurship in their respective regions.

Students and staff can apply through international or Erasmus office at their home universities.