Topics
The conference focuses on the following topics to explore concepts, frameworks, methods, tools, experiences, and empirical evidence related to the transformative processes of the agri-food system and rural development. We invite submissions from cross-sectoral (e.g., crop, livestock, environment and rural), provincial, interdisciplinary and global perspectives within agri-food & rural advisory, extension, and education. We hope the conference will help us get some insights into the overarching questions: What does agri-food & rural advisory and extension look like across Canada? Is it worthwhile to work on this topic, especially considering our global and regional reputation? What is the rigour and value of this discipline for those supporting agri-food systems and rural development? How can we tap into regional networks, such as the North American Agricultural Advisory Network? How does our approach compare to that of our neighbours in the USA, Europe and other jurisdictions?
Exploring the historical context and current transformations in Canada’s agricultural extension and education systems, the session will focus on the role of advisory systems in navigating these changes. It will highlight key policies, frameworks, and strategies that facilitate knowledge exchange and collaboration across multiple sectors. The discussion will address the trends and evidence-based action at the provincial and federal levels and how they align with each other and with global and regional trends.
The digital revolution is reshaping agri-food and rural development. This topic examines how technologies, such as AI and digital platforms, are transforming advisory and educational services. Discussions will center on how these technologies affect decision-making, communication, and collaboration among stakeholders. It will also cover challenges related to ethics, data governance, misinformation, and the role of AI tools like ChatGPT in knowledge mobilization.
The intersection of equity, diversity, and development within Canada’s agri-food & rural advisory and extension systems will be explored, particularly in Indigenous, northern, remote and disadvantaged communities. The topic focuses on how advisory services can better serve marginalized groups, promote decolonization, and support social inclusion in agri-food systems. Moreover, mental health and well-being, especially in rural and remote communities, are the key focus of the topic.
Focusing on organizational and institutional capacities, this topic discusses the growing need for advisory and extension organizations to adapt to new challenges, including digitalization, AI, and misinformation. It will explore how advisors can enhance their professional skills, manage diversity, and engage in cross-cultural interactions while supporting systemic, transformative processes within agri-food and rural systems.
Extension services play a key role in supporting entrepreneurs and stakeholders in adopting innovative practices in bio-economy, agro-ecology, food safety, and animal welfare. The topic will explore how advisory systems can assist farmers and rural communities in transitioning to more resilient and sustainable agricultural systems, while addressing emerging challenges like climate change and disaster management.
Media and journalism play a vital role in shaping perceptions about agri-food systems and rural livelihoods. This topic explores how media and communication services can help farmers and rural communities respond to emerging risks and disasters. It also covers the transition of traditional media in the digital age and the collaboration between media, extension, and advisory services to promote sustainable agri-food systems and rural development.