On 11 November 2025, the Czech University of Life Sciences Prague organised a dedicated community outreach meeting with the Association of Private Farmers of the Pilsen Region (Asociace soukromých zemědělců Plzeňsko). The association, based in Přeštice, represents the economic, social, and professional interests of private farmers across the country and operates under the Association of Private Agriculture of the Czech Republic.
The session was designed to foster stronger collaboration between the farming community, research institutions, and education providers, creating a platform for shared learning and the practical exchange of knowledge.
Exchange of experience and knowledge
The event gathered representatives from small, medium, and large agricultural enterprises, including both conventional and organic farmers. The shared aim was to reflect on current challenges, review innovative solutions, and explore possibilities to reinforce cooperation between practical farming and academic research.
The programme opened with an introductory speech from the head of the Food Pavilion of CZU’s Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources. Participants took part in a guided excursion through the Food Pavilion, where experts demonstrated foundational food‐processing techniques. This visit allowed farmers to see various procedures in action and served as a tangible introduction to the RURBANIVE training tools presented later in the workshop.
Presentation of the RURBANIVE Project and its outputs
The main segment of the meeting was devoted to the RURBANIVE project. CZU showcased several practical outputs developed within the initiative, emphasising their value for farmers and food producers.
Workshops on Food Processing
Participants were introduced to upcoming RURBANIVE workshops focusing on milk and meat processing, as well as pastry and beer production. These workshops provide practical guidance for farmers wishing to diversify or enhance their processing capacities.
Moodle Digital Learning Module
The RURBANIVE Moodle learning module was presented, featuring four hands-on courses based on real-world examples from agricultural practice. The discussion centred on how this digital tool could be further adapted to support farmers when placing processed products on the market.
XR Mobile Learning Application
The XR mobile application, designed to guide users step-by-step through food-processing procedures, was also introduced. This immersive tool allows farmers to explore techniques remotely and at their own pace.
Practical application and branding insights
The discussion addressed how farmers and processors could integrate the project’s tools into their operations. Participants shared feedback on additional content that would support regulatory compliance, market access, and product development. A concluding presentation on food branding highlighted the importance of communication and identity for high-quality products.
In total, 24 farmers and food producers from the Association of Private Farmers of the Pilsen Region took part, contributing to a group of 30 attendees. The event, realised by CZU, reinforced the collective commitment to strengthening skills, fostering innovation, and enhancing rural–urban cooperation within the framework of the RURBANIVE project.
