The main goal of this project was to develop 3 VET training programs in the field of: poultry, cattle and pig farming. The programs aimed to balance out the skill gaps in the animal breeding sector in North Macedonia and will provide the most recent knowledge and practices to: farmers, nutritionists, technicians and veterinarians (aged 20-45). At the same time it fostered diversity and equal access to training opportunities to individuals from different backgrounds.
An application to this project was submitted to support local farmers in overcoming the continuously growing skill gap in 4 major areas: (1) Farm biosecurity, in particular hygiene practices, (2) Animal health and welfare, (3) Animal nutrition, in particular quality control and healthy nutrition and (4) Environmental sustainability. To meet the needs of the farms, Grinagro and Ataturk University worked together to design, pilot and test 3 training programs in line with the most recent market needs. The designed program contributed to improved skills of veterinarians, farmers, nutritionists and technicians that work in or cooperate with cattle, pig and poultry farms. The validated modules will be subject to a continuous innovation to incorporate the newest European practices beyond this project. The programs were taught by local and international experts (current employees in Grinagro and visiting professionals from Ataturk University and PR) via the usage of modern and interactive approaches.