Integrating education and work is a key strategy for preparing future professionals in the agri-food sector. As part of the RELIEF project, which promotes bioeconomy and innovation in agriculture, a Work-Based Learning (WBL) experience was carried out in Palermo. It involved vocational learners in a hands-on course focused on smart agriculture.
What is Work-Based Learning?
Work-Based Learning (WBL) is an educational approach that combines practical work experience with classroom learning and, in the case of RELIEF, a dedicated e-learning platform. This method engages learners in real-life or applied research environments—such as internships, apprenticeships, or collaborative projects with businesses and universities—helping them to acquire practical skills and knowledge directly applicable in the job market.
WBL bridges theory and practice, fosters the development of professional competencies, and creates networking opportunities with industry experts. In agriculture, this approach enables learners to explore innovative technologies and sustainable strategies in productive settings.
Within the RELIEF project, WBL is part of a broader training methodology combining three learning modes: face-to-face sessions, online learning, and field-based activities. This mix, as detailed in the RELIEF Training and Assessment Methodology Report, offers a comprehensive learning experience tailored to both student needs and the demands of the agricultural sector.
Learning in the field: drones and technologies for sustainable agriculture
The training programme developed in Sicily focused on digital technologies applied to agriculture, particularly the use of drones for crop monitoring. The WBL experience unfolded in several phases, enabling students to blend theory and practice in a productive environment.
In the first phase, the Department of Agricultural, Food and Forest Sciences (SAAF) at the University of Palermo introduced students to ongoing experimental activities, research on climate change adaptation, and the application of modern technologies in agriculture.
In the second phase, participants visited the department’s lab, where they explored the use of drones to assess crop health, reduce waste, and optimise planting and harvesting. The visit also showcased the use of automated tractors and GPS technologies for production mapping.
During the third phase, students returned to the lab to analyse drone-captured images and work in groups to discuss how smart technologies could be improved to enhance crop yields.
In the final phase, students reflected on the lessons learned through the field experience, completed an evaluation module, and discussed the solutions applied within the framework of Agriculture 4.0.
Thanks to the collaboration with the University of Palermo—specifically the SAAF Department, which made its laboratories and experimental fields available—participants had the opportunity to witness advanced technologies in action. These tools are key to optimising resource management, reducing environmental impact, and increasing agricultural productivity.
The training programme included specific sessions on:
- use of drones for crop detection and analysis;
- precision agriculture techniques;
- interpretation of data to optimise production;
- sustainability strategies and applied bioeconomy.
Bridging education and employment
The work-based learning approach adopted by the RELIEF project enabled students to acquire skills that are immediately applicable in the labour market. The interaction with professionals and the practical application of theoretical knowledge helped raise awareness of the opportunities offered by digitalisation in the agri-food sector. This experience serves as a concrete example of how vocational training can respond to the challenges of the green and digital transition, preparing young professionals to lead the agriculture of tomorrow.
RELIEF continues to promote these experiences across various European regions, strengthening the connection between education, research, and the productive world for a more sustainable and competitive agriculture.
About RELIEF
RELIEF – euRopean bio-Economy aLliancE in Farming is a project funded by the European Union that aims to develop an innovative approach to teaching bioeconomy in agriculture, providing specific educational resources for professionals in the sector.
Partners
- UOP – University of Peloponnese (Greece, coordinator)
- ReadLab P.C. (Greece)
- OTC – Olympic Training & Consulting LTD (Greece)
- CERTH – Centre for Research and Technology Hellas Greece (Greece)
- UNIFI – Università degli Studi di Firenze (Italy)
- Terinov (Portugal)
- Innovade LI (Cyprus)
- MDU – Mälardalen (Sweden)
- UAc – Universidade Dos Acores (Portugal)
- Dream (Italy)
- SwIdeas (Sweden)
- CESIE ETS (Italy)
For further information
Read about RELIEF, visit the website https://relief.uop.gr/ and follow us on Facebook and Linkedin.
Contact Caterina Impastato: caterina.impastato@cesie.org.
