CDRI is opening registration for interested participants to attend the 3-day training course entitled Benefit Cost Analysis (BCA) on Agricultural Value Chain under the IFAD-funded project “Network of Agriculture and Rural Development Think-tanks” (NARDT) for countries in Mekong sub-region. The course, which will be held from 19 to 21 June 2023, is designed to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of BCA and its application to the agricultural sector, with a special emphasis on the context of carbon credits and climate change mitigation. The course will include both lectures and practical exercises to provide a well-rounded learning experience.

Day 1 (19 June 2023): BCA and Agricultural Value Chains 

• Introduction to BCA
• Relevance of BCA to Agricultural Value Chains
• Understanding Agricultural Value Chains
• Analyzing Benefits and Costs at Each Stage
• Steps Involved in Conducting a BCA
• Exercise: Applying BCA to Small-scale Enterprises along the Agricultural Value Chains
• Group Discussions, Presentations, and Feedback

Day 2 (20 June 2023): BCA and Regenerative Farming

• Introduction to Regenerative Farming
• Potential of Regenerative Farming for Mitigating Climate Change
• Case Studies on Regenerative Farming for Carbon Credits
• BCA for Regenerative Farming Practices
• Assessing the Economic and Environmental Benefits of Regenerative Farming
• Exercise: Applying BCA to Regenerative Farming Practices at Small-holder households
• Group Discussions, Presentations, and Feedback

Day 3 (21 June 2023): BCA and Agroforestry Practices 

• Introduction to Agroforestry Systems and Practices
• Potential of Agroforestry Practices for Mitigating Climate Change
• Case Studies on Agroforestry for Carbon Credits
• BCA for Agroforestry Practices
• Assessing the Economic and Environmental Benefits of Agroforestry Practices
• Exercise: Applying BCA to the Value Chain of Agroforestry Practices and Products
• Group Discussions, Presentations, and Feedback
• Wrap-up and Conclusion of the Training Course

About our trainers

• Trainer 1: Prof. Dr. Nophea Sasaki is a renowned professor specializing in natural resources management and sustainability at the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) in Bangkok, Thailand. With a Ph.D. in Agriculture from Gifu University, Japan, his expertise lies in sustainable forest management, nature-based carbon capture, and result-based financial compensation under the REDD+ scheme. Dr. Nophea's extensive research has influenced policies and practices in protecting forests and mitigating climate change, which greatly impacts the agricultural sector. He serves as an editorial board member and chief editor for several prestigious international journals, playing a vital role in shaping and disseminating research in his field. As a passionate advocate for sustainable development, he actively collaborates with others to address global challenges. Additionally, Dr. Nophea is a distinguished member of the International Union of Forest Research Organizations, serving on the global expert panel for REDD+, forest management, and biodiversity conservation. He has also organized regional training workshops on carbon accounting and trading systems for ASEAN officials, enhancing capacity building and knowledge exchange in the region.
• Trainer 2: Asst. Prof. Dr. Takuji W. Tsusaka is an accomplished academic and educator, currently an Assistant Professor at the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT). With a Ph.D. in Development Economics, Takuji has made significant contributions to agricultural economics, rural development, and food security. His research focuses on understanding the complex interactions between agriculture, poverty, and the environment, with emphasis on developing countries. At AIT, Takuji's lectures incorporate real-world examples and practical applications for a comprehensive understanding. He has authored numerous scholarly articles and research papers in reputable journals, primarily in sustainable agricultural practices, technology adoption, and food security in developing nations. With diverse expertise and a passion for positive change, Dr. Takuji W. Tsusaka contributes significantly to the academic community. His teaching, research, and advocacy efforts at AIT shape the future of sustainable agriculture and rural development, making him an influential figure in driving progress and fostering transformations in these critical areas.

Eligible criteria for application 

• Be at the age of 18 and above
• Be an undergraduate or graduate
• Be committed to attend 3 days training
• Express a strong interest in both qualitative and quantitative research in agricultural and/or economic field
• Hold a background in government sector, NGOs, private sector, and research field is an addition.

Benefits for participation 

• A certificate of completion
• Opportunity to involve as a research consultant or part-time researcher with CDRI’s research teams
• Expand professional network in research field