European Seminar on (rural) Extension and Education

The 28th European Seminar on Extension and Education (ESEE) is scheduled to take place from June 28 to July 2, 2027, in Rakvere, Estonia. 

A primary goal for this seminar is to facilitate a shift from theoretical concepts toward tangible impact and practical action.

While the seminar maintains its leadership in European scientific discourse, the Scientific Committee has reached a consensus to prioritize global scientific relevance over strict geographical exclusivity. Consequently, the themes and topics are designed to be conceptually robust enough to accommodate case studies and perspectives from both Europe and the Global South, focusing on "building networks" and "plurality" within the community.

Central theme - Human-centric extension and education: empowering the future of AKIS

In an era defined by rapid sustainability-oriented transitions, the 28th European Seminar on Extension and Education (ESEE 2027) seeks to bridge the gap between digital advancement and the human core of agricultural systems. While international policies and digital innovations like Artificial Intelligence (AI) offer transformative potential for agrifood systems, they also introduce a critical tension regarding the future of human relationships within extension. By positioning the seminar around the concept of "Empowering," we frame digital innovation not as a replacement for human actors, but as a sophisticated tool to enhance their capacity.

The 2027 seminar moves beyond traditional boundaries to focus on the footprint of leadership and the ethical responsibilities of advisors, educators, and leaders. Drawing on discussions regarding the necessity of spirit-filled relationships, the theme emphasizes that extension is at its most effective when it supports individuals in finding their unique strengths within the Agricultural Knowledge and Innovation Systems (AKIS). We aim to move from a culture of measuring indicators to one of creating meaningful impact, recognizing that the ethical creation of a resilient society starts with the quality of individual connections.

ESEE 2027 remains conceptually robust, inviting a plurality of perspectives from both Europe and the Global South. We welcome research and practice that explores how human-centric extension can manage the trade-offs of agroecological transitions while fostering a future for agriculture that is as socially resilient as it is technologically advanced.

(sub) topics/Themes

1. Digitalization and AI in extension and education.
2. Wellbeing and social sustainability in rural communities.
3. Skills, collective learning, and capacity building.
4. Governance and the future of AKIS.
5. Human-Centred Evaluation and Learning in AKIS 
6. Agroecological transitions and change in food system