Plant breeders’ rights for food security and economic development

We are excited to offer you our comprehensive online program that provides 25 years of training experience on the plant breeders' rights system. The program consists of eight e-learning modules that are designed to give you an in-depth understanding of the key aspects of the UPOV Plant Variety Protection system.

The modules cover various critical topics such as the significance and advantages of a (harmonized) PBR system, the legal framework established by the UPOV Convention, administrative procedures, different PVP systems, the background and practical aspects of DUS-testing, the use of molecular techniques in PVP, enforcement of rights, exemptions to these rights, and the relationship between PVP and seed systems, as well as genetic resources treaties.

To enhance your learning experience, the program features videos where individuals from different countries share their personal reflections and insights on their journeys with PVP systems.

Starting date: 
01 October 2023

Register

We start a new training throughout the year every 1st of the month.

Our cancellation arrangement is stated in our general conditions, (artikel 6.) Our privacy statement reveals the careful way in which we treat your personal data.

Target group

This course is designed for legal, administrative, policy, or executive professionals who work in the plant variety protection system, regardless if they work in the public or private sector.

Those who register will have the opportunity to participate in the UPOV Distance Learning Course (DL-205) titled 'Introduction to the UPOV System of Plant Variety Protection under the UPOV Convention' free of charge. 

Date and location

This course will be provided online:

  • Launch: October 1st 2023 - Starts throughout the year every 1st of the month

  • Total hours: 80 hours of learning material and online tutoring

Internet connection is important for the completion of the course. 

Our online learning system is Naktuinbouw Academy. Everything you need — our course program, social space, assignments, background information are in this system. The Naktuinbouw Academy is easy to operate, can also be accessed by your phone. 

Program

The structure of the program:

Module 1 - Plant Breeders’ Rights:  Importance and Benefits

Module 2  - Legal framework, UPOV Convention

Module 3  - Administrative Aspects, PVP systems

Module 4 -Technical DUS Examination part 1

Module 5 - Technical DUS Examination  part 2

Module 6 - Enforcement of the Rights, exemptions for non-commercial use and FSS

Module 7 – European PBR, Seed Systems, Genetic Resources Policies

Module 8 - (optional assignment) – Roadmap to implementation of a PBR system

Every module offers a comprehensive learning experience through a variety of resources, including reading materials, interactive assignments, presentations, and videos from experts all around the world. To progress through the program, you must pass an online test at the end of each module before moving on to the next one.

Module 8 is an optional assignment that invites participants to create a Road Map towards their country's PVP system with specific targets and a time frame. Our DUS team is happy to evaluate the Road Map and provide feedback.

The program offers a total of 80 hours of learning material and online tutoring. All content is in English. After completing the course, participants will receive a certificate.

Join us in this online program to gain expertise in the plant breeders' rights system and contribute effectively to the field of plant variety protection.

Fee

The course fee is €2500. The optional module plus feedback is included in this price. The program will be available to you for a period of 6 months.

Questions?