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Operations > SCIP > GAP > Farmer and Agronomist Training |
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Universal has long believed that farmer training is one of the most important factors for successful and sustainable tobacco production. Globally, Universal employs more than 800 agronomists and technicians who serve as crop advisors, assisting and training tobacco farmers on all aspects of tobacco production from seed to baling.
Universal’s crop advisors have received diverse training from formal institutes, colleges, and universities. They also participate regularly in both external and in-house courses designed to keep them knowledgeable about the latest agronomic advancements. This continuous training, coupled with Universal’s agronomic research programs, maintains the high level of knowledge and skill required of our agronomists and technicians.
Universal conducts international agronomy seminars and training programs, where key agronomy personnel share their knowledge and learn about new developments, industry issues, company guidelines, and advancements in tobacco research and production. These seminars and programs promote the transfer of knowledge between our origins of operation and allow broad discussion regarding our use of best practices. The Company has also formed a Corporate Agronomy Team to study and identify strategies for continual improvement in our agronomic activities.
Universal’s farmer-training programs are tailored to each specific area of operation. Key elements of the programs include: variety selection; land and water management; integrated pest management; proper agrochemical selection, usage, and disposal; nutrient management; harvesting; curing; grading; baling; and storage. In many locations, Universal also provides training on forestry and woodlot management, and tree production and maintenance.
Universal continues to advise farmers on the importance of child education and the elimination of child labor. Universal supports many local organizations and programs and is actively involved as a board member of the Elimination of Child Labour in Tobacco Growing Foundation (ECLT). Universal also supports the tobacco community by funding and building schools, medical clinics, and providing health care training in many regions of the world.
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P.O. Box 25099 :
Richmond, VA 23260 US :
804-359-9311
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