Van Hall Larenstein University of applied sciences

Sustainable Value Chain Development: A Professional Cohort

A 3-Month Journey to Understanding the Dynamics of Value Chains

HVHL Academy Online course 6 weeks

Open days

  • Online Open Day

    19 March

  • Online Open Day

    4 June

Sustainable Value Chain Development: A Professional Cohort

HVHL Academy Online course 6 weeks

Open days

A 3-Month Journey to Understanding the Dynamics of Value Chains

Transform your expertise in three months

VelpTraining/cursusDeeltijdAgro & VoedingEngels

This comprehensive cohort program combines two specialised e-courses designed for mid-career professionals in agriculture, development, and business. Moving beyond theory, this program equips you with the analytical tools to map, analyse, and govern complex agri-food systems.

Program Overview

Program Overview

Location: Online, self-paced with weekly interactive sessions
Price: with consultation
Course duration: 3 Months (2 consecutive 6-week courses)
Target Audience: Mid-career professionals in Agri-food, Value Chain Development, and Global Trade

For more information, please contact Mr. Mehrab Marri (Coordinator) Telephone +31 634344188 Mehrab.marri@hvhl.nl

Van Hall Larenstein University of Applied Sciences (HVHL) reserves the right to make changes to a study program, teachers and content if this is necessary to achieve the result or in the event of force majeure.

Video Value Chain Concept (of the food system)

Video Value Chain Concept
Course 1: Value Chain Concepts (Weeks 1–6)

Course 1: Value Chain Concepts (Weeks 1–6)

The Foundation: Mapping and Analysis

In this first phase, you will master the fundamentals of value chain dynamics through mini-lectures and data-driven analysis.

Key Learning Outcomes:

  • Mapping: Identify chain actors, supporters, and influencers to create a visual value chain map.
  • Data Analysis: Interpret product volumes, actor shares, selling prices, and gross margins.
  • System Dynamics: Understand coordination, vulnerabilities, and the flow of information.
  • Critical Issues: Analyze sustainability, quality control, and gender issues within the chain.
  • Economic Parameters: Define micro-economic parameters for agricultural enterprises.
Course 2: Value Chain Governance (Weeks 7–12)

Course 2: Value Chain Governance (Weeks 7–12)

The Strategy: Power, Policy, and Sustainability

Building on your mapping skills, this course explores how power is exercised and how businesses can achieve a competitive advantage through sustainable governance.

Key Learning Outcomes:

  • Governance Frameworks: Understand the structures that shape chain governance through real-world case studies.
  • Control & Environment: Explain how actors exert control and the impact of institutional environments on inter-firm relationships.
  • Competitive Strategy: Discuss business strategies to enhance performance and sustainability.
  • Smallholder Inclusion: Evaluate performance issues related to "Producers Organisations" and smallholder inclusion.
  • Food Systems: Differentiate between Value Chain concepts and broader Food Systems using a sustainable approach.

Final product:

To conclude the three-month cohort, participants will integrate the frameworks from both courses to present their own work-related value chain, which may take the form of a podcast, final presentation, or poster, to be decided based on time availability. This project demonstrates your ability to apply governance and mapping skills to solve real-world professional challenges.

Registration & Contact

Registration & Contact

Ready to join the cohort? For enrollment details and start dates, please contact the Program Coordinator:

  • Coordinator: Mr. Mehrab Marri
  • Email: Mehrab.marri@hvhl.nl
  • Telephone: +31 634344188
  • Institution: Van Hall Larenstein University of Applied Sciences (HVHL)

Want to know more about the programme?