On 30 April 2025, within the Irrigated Agriculture Development in Ararat and Armavir marzes, the successful conclusion of the New Extensionist Learning Kit (NELK) training modules was marked by a celebratory Closing Session and Certificate Award Ceremony.

Irrigated Agriculture Development in Ararat and Armavir marzes (IADAAM) project, financed through the European Union (EU) with implementation by the French Development Agency (AFD) is an integrated initiative aimed at transforming irrigated agriculture in Armenia.

Within IADAAM project a technical assistance component is implemented jointly by Agriconsulting Europe S.A, Avenue Consulting Group, Strategic Development Agency NGO and 3R Strategy LLC consortium and aims to provide institutional support to the Ministry of Economy (MoE) in the formulation of agricultural policies and reforms in priority areas, provide technical support to the MoE in the implementing project activities, ensure communication and reporting for the IADAAM project.

The project supports the Government of Armenia in policy matters linked with the development of modernized irrigated agriculture, particularly, this project is implemented jointly with the Ministry of Economy (85%) and the Ministry of Territorial Administration and Infrastructure (15%), reflecting a collaborative approach to address the existing challenges of the agricultural sector.

The event honored the commitment and achievements of the participants who completed the rigorous training program, which is aimed at strengthening capacities in agricultural extension through the development of practical competencies and innovative approaches. The event brought together stakeholders, implementing partners, and program beneficiaries to recognize the participants’ commitment and contributions to advancing agricultural development in Armenia.

The New Extensionist Learning Kit (NELK) training, which comprised a comprehensive 13-module curriculum, was designed to build the capacity of IADAAM Agricultural Extension Services (AEST) team — including coordinators, advisers,as well as local government representatives of Ararat and Armavir marzes. The program covered essential areas such as rural support strategies, extension methodologies, program and project management, value chain facilitation, and community mobilization. Additionally, the modules emphasized key areas such as community mobilization, the development of farmer organizations, agricultural entrepreneurship, gender responsiveness, and approaches to risk mitigation and climate adaptation within Extension and Advisory Services.

The event started with the welcoming speech of Audrey Gourdien, Project Manager for Armenia at the French Development Agency (AFD), who stated that “the agricultural sector stands at the crossroads of many global challenges. In this context, agricultural extension professionals play an increasingly critical role. The NELK training series has been carefully designed to respond to these evolving demands, by equipping you with practical skills and strategic insight in areas such as leadership, digital transformation, policy engagement, and value chain development. At the French Development Agency (AFD), we are proud to support the IADAAM Project, which adopts a holistic and inclusive approach to agricultural development. We strongly believe that building a resilient, productive, and equitable agricultural system begins with strengthening local capacities and empowering professionals like yourselves”.

Karen Harutyunyan, IADAAM Project Manager at the Ministry of Economy of the Republic of Armenia, stated in his speech that the MoE places great emphasis on strengthening agricultural extension and advisory services as a cornerstone of rural development: “Today, we are proud to witness the culmination of a training program that not only enhances professional capacities, but also contributes to the long-term modernization of Armenian agriculture. I would like to express my gratitude to our partners at the European Union, the French Development Agency, and the implementing consortium for their unwavering support. Most importantly, I want to thank the participants — your efforts are shaping the future of Armenian agriculture”.

Following the opening remarks, Anna Mkhitaryan, Chief Management Consultant and NELK Expert within the IADAAM Project, presented an overview of the training modules and key outcomes. She underscored the program’s role in shaping a new generation of extension professionals, equipped with practical tools and contemporary knowledge tailored to the evolving needs of Armenian agriculture. Her presentation outlined how the training fosters professionalism, strategic thinking, and innovation within AEAS, positioning Armenia to meet the challenges of modern agricultural development.

Summing up the event, Sergey Matevosyan, IADAAM Project Deputy Team Leader, delivered remarks highlighting the strategic importance of capacity building in the agricultural extension system. He emphasized that “The NELK training initiative represents more than just capacity development — it is a strategic investment in the future of Armenia’s agricultural sector. By equipping our extension professionals with modern tools, practical skills, and global perspectives, we are preparing the system to respond effectively to both existing and emerging challenges. I am confident that the knowledge and experiences shared over the course of these 13 modules will continue to shape your work and inspire innovation in the field. Together, we are advancing a more responsive, inclusive, and forward-looking extension system that supports the growth and sustainability of Armenian agriculture.”

This event marked not just the end of a training program but a significant step forward in building capacity within Armenia’s agricultural sector, equipping professionals with the tools and knowledge to drive sustainable development and innovation across the marzes.