Is it worth investing time and money in organic certification training?

Organic farming education not only promotes sustainable and environmentally friendly farming practices, but also improves farmers' competitiveness in the rapidly growing organic market. But the question often arises: is it really justified to pay for such training, or should the public and businesses be able to access this essential knowledge for free? This question opens up a wider debate on access to training and the future sustainability of organic farming. 
Understanding the meaning of investment:
Organic certification training provides in-depth knowledge of the regulatory framework, principles of organic farming, food safety and supply chain management. It prepares professionals to work to both local and international certification standards. As legislation changes frequently, training programme designers need to regularly update content, provide quality training materials and attract competent trainers, which requires significant resources. Therefore, by investing in paid training, the participant not only gains theoretical knowledge, but also access to a professionally designed learning environment and mentoring support. Such an investment is particularly relevant for companies planning to certify their products as organic or for professionals wishing to work in the field of organic certification. The fees for the courses cover not only the training content but also the necessary infrastructure and quality assurance. Although free materials are also available on the internet, they often provide only superficial information and rarely include the practical guidance needed for the certification process. In addition, they usually do not sufficiently cover regionally specific requirements, practical applications and current trends in the sector.
Contributing to sustainable development: 
Investing in organic certification training is not a waste of resources - it is a significant investment in both individual and company professional development, compliance and sustainability. With organic requirements and standards constantly evolving, it is essential to keep your knowledge up to date. Free resources often fail to provide the sufficiently in-depth, accurate and up-to-date information needed for quality preparation and practical implementation. 
"STC Centre for Continuing Professional Development educates and informs: 
Farmers who have applied for support from the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD) in the 2023-2027 programming period and have made a commitment for the new five-year period are required to attend refresher courses.
According to these requirements "STC Centre for Continuing Professional Education" invites farmers to apply for training. 

• Professional development 160 h programme "Fundamentals of organic farming". The training is aimed at all those who are planning to start or are already involved in organic farming. The programme will cover the principles of crop production, animal husbandry conditions, processing organic products and practical tips on how to market your produce. Practical sessions on farms. On-site training in Priekuļi.
• Further training 40h programme for farmers "Production, processing and labelling of organic agricultural products". The aim of the training is to provide in-depth knowledge on organic farming. Distance learning. 

At the end of the programme, you will receive a certificate valid for submission to the Rural Support Service.
"STC Centre for Continuing Professional Education" is an accredited educational institution included in the register of educational institutions of the Ministry of Education and Science. 
How to apply for training?
By completing the application on the STC website www.stc.lv (under "Training Centre") or by email macibucentrs@stc.lv, or by calling 28810789.