https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SZiKwbx-5jE
The sophistication of agribusiness has increased in recent years, making it necessary for companies to hire professionals from various disciplines to ensure the efficient use of resources.
In this context, on Wednesday, June 23, 2021, the School of Graduate Business Studies (EPN) at Universidad ORT Uruguay launched its blended-learning Specialization Diploma in Sustainable Agribusiness.
Presentations were given by Martín Secco, M.A. —B.A. in Business Administration, former CEO of Marfrig Global Foods—, Dr. Mario Balmelli —chairman of the Meat Commission of the Rural Association of Paraguay, Ph.D. in Veterinary Science, consultant, and manager of agricultural and livestock companies—, Dr. Pablo Caputi —Ph.D. in Economics and Master’s in Agricultural Economics, Director of the Information and Economic Analysis Division at the National Meat Institute (INAC), and Professor of Agribusiness at ORT— and MSc. Mateo Caputi —MSc. in Supply Chain Management, founding partner of Stratego, an agribusiness consulting firm, and consultant to the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB)—.
Blended learning
“The Specialization Diploma in Sustainable Agribusiness is the second program—the first was the EMBA, a blended-learning Executive MBA, and the Master’s in Digital Business will soon be offered—that ORT’s Graduate School of Business offers in a blended-learning format, which means serving the region and the worldfrom Uruguay, ”said Dr. Gaston J. Labadie, dean of the School of Management and Social Sciences.
A country of agribusiness
Martín Secco, drawing on his experience as former CEO of Marfrig Global Foods, shared his leadership insights and global perspective on agribusiness.
He explained that he started out working in a family business and spent 35 years in the meat industry. “You have to have a deep understanding of the business you’re in, in all its aspects,” he said.
Regarding the country’s situation, he said: “Uruguay has everything it needs to become a hub for intellectual and practical development in agribusiness. Given the strong educational background of our professionals, the opportunity to pursue a graduate program like the one ORT is offering will be a tremendous chance to make a name for themselves here and throughout the region.”
“We are and will always be a country of agribusiness. Uruguay has a long history in agribusiness and will continue to do so.”
“Anyone working in this field needs to have a deep understanding of the industry, both from an accounting perspective and in terms of what is manufactured and offered,” the expert said.
Diploma Features
Dr. Pablo Caputi stated that “a graduate program ultimately defines us as professionals, often more so than our undergraduate degree.” The professor cited “five good reasons to invest a year in the Specialization Diploma in Sustainable Agribusiness”:
- The design. This graduate program was designed for the post-COVID-19 world. “Today, people work, live, and study in a blended learning format.”
- Sustainability. Environmental, economic, and social sustainability are taken into account throughout all courses in the graduate program.
- The focus on technology. “There is a good balance between the traditional and the new. A digital revolution is underway today, and the agribusiness sector is at the heart of that revolution.”
- The role of businesses. This graduate program is closely aligned with the business world. It focuses on problem-solving and decision-making.
- Caputti emphasized the international focus—from Uruguay to the world.
The curriculum
Mateo Caputi, M.Sc., presented details of the curriculum for the Specialization Diploma in Sustainable Agribusiness.
“It is designed to provide academic training with a comprehensive strategic perspective on the business. It is aimed at decision-makers with diverse educational backgrounds who work in various areas of agribusiness,” the expert noted. He also mentioned that the program allows students to choose from a variety of electives. “It is designed to be 100% compatible with a full-time job.”
The program is divided into four modules, each lasting three months. In the first module, the foundation for the entire program is laid, and students gain a broad overview of the agribusiness sector. In the second module, the focus is on strategy and positioning in agribusiness. The third module focuses on the use of tools and decision-making. The fourth module, which concludes the program, involves developing a capstone project.
Agricultural technology
Dr. Mario Balmelli reflected on the opportunities available to countries at the regional level if they are able to generate synergy.
“I would like to highlight the program being implemented in Uruguay. While Paraguay is highly efficient in agricultural production, in the livestock sector we have grown by looking to Uruguay as a model. We aspire to reach those markets and establish the institutional framework that your country has,” the expert noted.
He added: “Knowledge is also a form of technology. I believe that agricultural technology isn’t just about having the best seeders. It requires leadership that is in step with today’s world.”
Finally, he concluded: “Paraguay has a highly dynamic private sector that is committed to strengthening the agricultural sector. Many Uruguayans are working with us. We need leaders who are trained through programs like this.”