Global emergencies, fueled by rising conflicts and climate change, are increasingly impacting agricultural communities. Seed security interventions are often the first line of response, as seed is relatively easy for farmers to use, can offer swift returns, and can foster sustainable production. However, while good seed aid can make a positive difference–and quickly–poorly designed aid can do more harm than good. Bad aid fosters farmer dependency, disrupts local markets, and undermines small-scale seed enterprises.

Getting the seed security assessment right is crucial to guiding effective seed-linked interventions. Know that seed security problems may manifest themselves in quite different ways: for instance, there may be problems linked to seed availability or access or seed quality and/or variety suitability—each of which may require a targeted response. Seed security-specific assessments are also crucial recognizing that seed security is linked to but different from food security. As field practitioners see often, a household can lack food to eat, especially during the hungry season, but have enough to sow all plots. Conversely, a household can have enough food but lack the right seed for planting.

This e-learning course, Seed System Security Assessment (SSSA) + Response, introduces a concrete method for identifying and addressing seed security challenges. Full of interactive exercises, quizzes, and real-world examples, the course guides practitioners through the essential steps for carrying out an SSSA and determining the ‘better’ seed security responses. Participants will deepen their learning of seed systems and seed security terminology, how to organize an SSSA, approaches for assessing farmers’ needs and existing seed, and possible responses for seed system-related challenges.

Successfully completing the course (with a score of 75% or higher) earns users a Certificate of Completion. Modules and quizzes can be repeated as often as needed until you are confident in your expertise.