Vegetable Breeding

October 26 – November 6, 2026

Background

The successful cultivation of high-quality vegetables relies heavily on the use of superior seeds. In tropical regions, the criteria for seed quality differ significantly from those in temperate climates. Specifically, tropical vegetables require increased tolerance to heat and strong resistance to a variety of pests and diseases prevalent in the region.

The rapidly growing private vegetable seed sector in Africa and Asia is actively improving its capabilities to provide farmers with superior seed varieties. However, both companies and public research institutions have recognized a crucial need for training in vegetable breeding. This is particularly true for optimizing the use of genebank resources and implementing advanced breeding techniques such as pyramiding disease resistance genes and Molecular Breeding.

This vegetable breeding course aims to address these essential areas, providing participants with the knowledge and skills necessary for successful vegetable breeding in tropical environments.

Course objective

The course will give participants hands-on experience and expand their technical knowledge in tropical vegetable breeding. It allows participants to expand their professional network to fellow breeders and recognized experts in the field. Course subjects include:

  • Genetic diversity and resources at TVRC

  • Gene bank database

  • Breeding scheme of tomato, chili, cucurbit and okra

  • Hybrid cultivar development using male sterility systems

  • Genetic diversity and resources at TVRC

  • Plant-pathogen interaction

  • DNA markers in vegetable breeding and pathogen/insect diagnostics

  • Genebank database and genetic diversity analysis (PCA)

  • DNA extraction and qualification (plants & pathogens)

  • Bulk segregant analysis (plants)

  • RNA extraction (pathogens)

  • PCR and gel result interpretation (plants & pathogens)

  • Marker design and group discussion (plants & pathogens)

42nd IVTC 2025 - Brochure (Front x 72)

What our participants say about the IVTC:

“The course was very well organized, and the overall experience was excellent.”

Ashraf Saud Muhanna Al Nabhani, Head, Agricultural Land Department, Ministry of Agriculture Fisheries and Water Resources, Oman

“Including more hands-on and practical sessions would further enhance the training experience.”

Nchimunya Munsanda Siyokwa, Senior Field Crops Officer, Ministry of Agriculture, Zambia

“Additional practical sessions would help participants apply the knowledge more confidently.”

Nhlanhla Lucky Hlophe, Research Officer, Ministry of Agriculture, Kingdom of Eswatini

“Interactive videos showcasing WorldVeg’s global work, along with a one- to two-day visit to WorldVeg Taiwan, would greatly enhance the training. A 21-day program including classes, practicals, demonstrations, case studies, farmer field visits, and inter-country visits would be ideal.”

Rohit Bisht, Deputy Commissioner (Horticulture), Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Saint Lucia, India

“Extending the duration of the training—perhaps to several weeks—would allow participants to gain even deeper knowledge and exposure.”

Mandla Nkosingiphile Mamba, Assistant Extension Officer - Horticulture, Ministry of Agriculture, Kingdom of Eswatini

TECHNICAL

Technical skills you need for your next level of agricultural research, development, and extension professionals.

SCIENTIFIC

Scientific skills to enhance the efficacy of your research.

MANAGERIAL

Develop your management skills through learning
and practical experience.

Apply Now!

The International Vegetable Training Course

The best option to enhance your technical, scientific and managerial skills
Apply Now!