Overall theme and context

The French Land Tenure and Development Technical Committee (CTFD) has designed and developed an online learning path based on the knowledge and experience accumulated over more than 20 years in a variety of contexts, particularly in West Africa. Developed with its members and the support of the Campus AFD, this training project helps people better understand and master the issues and debates surrounding land tenure policies in developing countries. Offered as a MOOC (massive open online course), this programme explores key concepts, debates, and controversies surrounding land issues and discusses points of action. The theoretical knowledge presented in the MOOC is illustrated by concrete examples in the form of first-hand accounts from key stakeholders, animated videos, and practical exercises. By the end of the MOOC, participants will be able to understand and present the major questions relating to land issues and the practical aspects of safeguarding the rights of local populations in different countries.

Learning objectives

• To understand issues related to rural lands, including those involving access, stakeholders, and institutions.
• To discover tools and resources for meeting the policy challenges when it comes to formalising land rights.
• To develop knowledge of agricultural land markets.
• To explore issues related to large-scale land appropriation, land tenure, and violent conflicts.

Teaching and activities

This training program is structured around thematic videos featuring contributions from experts on key subjects and video testimonials from people working in the field presenting experiences and case studies. Participants will follow modules with diagrams and infographics, interactive learning activities, and additional resources for further reading. There are also quizzes to ensure participants have understood the essential points.

Registration details

This course is divided into six two-hour chapters and is available all year round. Access is free.

A new tutored session is opened on the 28th of October 2024.

Target audience

A community of strategic players in the land issues sector in the North and South: political decision-makers and government officials, elected representatives and technicians from local authorities, project operators, civil society stakeholders, staff from international organisations, experts (including AFD staff), teachers, and students.

Partners

AFD, Land and Development Technical Committee