Netherlands: Agricultural innovations: VET students engage in green research

Promoting research and innovation in agricultural VET schools

Many VET courses find their origin in the ambition to innovate production processes or to adopt the application of new technologies – especially in the Dutch agricultural sector. Agricultural VET schools are expected to train their students in, for example, new cultivation methods.

With the launch of practorates in 2015, research units in VET-schools, this ambition received a new impetus. The word ‘practorate’ conveys the dedication of VET-research to the innovation of work practices. For the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Nature the introduction of practorates was an excellent opportunity boost the development of the knowledge and skills needed to address environmental issues.

Practorates offer VET students the opportunity to get involved in research projects and learn about new technologies and agricultural sector innovations. This is made possible through the KIEM-groen subsidy scheme, which allows agricultural VET schools to apply for research funding. Research proposals should endorse: 

• collaboration between a practorate and higher education and SMEs (e.g. farms and horticultural companies);
• the creation of applicable knowledge, such as prototypes or manuals; and
• the active involvement of VET students in research activities.

Examples of green projects organised by practorates

The projects carried out by practorates are funded through the KIEM-groen subsidy scheme cover a broad thematic spectrum, and aim at promoting sustainable practices and advancing green technologies in the agricultural sector.

One of the projects aims to analyse whether green roofs and façades can reduce the Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect. Climate change causes an 2-5% °C warmer average air temperature in cities compared to rural areas, contributing to related issues such as air and noise pollution and stormwater runoff.

Another project explores the impact of light on the welfare and productivity of broiler chickens. The use of UV light is expected to improve chickens’ immunity and reduce stress. These assumptions will be tested by evaluating the effects of a new type of lamp. Students will be responsible for recording observations, managing data, and carrying out analysis and reporting.

The subsidy scheme also funds an experiment to reduce food waste by processing fruit waste streams into desserts.

Student experiences

Through their participation in research, students are expected to become more receptive to new insights in their future careers. Their ability to absorb and apply new knowledge can accelerate innovation in the sector. So far, around 500 VET students have been involved in such research projects, organised by their schools in cooperation with farms, riding schools, expert organisations, and others.
Although still in its early stages, the initiative is already yielding results. Some students have become more aware of animal welfare issues in their chosen fields. Others have gained a clearer understanding of how research works and developed skills that will help them carry out practical research independently.

Student Nathaniel shared:

‘In this project I learned how to work with people I have never met before, what heat stress entails, what is relevant when placing sensors and the importance of good communication with the parties involved’.

Nathaniel’s experience reflects the broader impact of these projects in helping students grow both personally and professionally through hands-on research.

Read more

• Application website for the KIEM-groen pilot subsidy scheme (only in Dutch)