Training and capacity building methodology
This module provides an overview of training methods for farm extension, including planning activities for the cotton season.
What is the Training Curriculum?
The Organic Cotton Training Curriculum is a publicly available web-based “training of trainers” course. It focuses on providing the best possible guidance on organic agronomic practices. This version of the curriculum, adapted to Türkiye, was developed in 2025 by OCA in collaboration with Ankara-based Prospera Impact and in consultation with Turkish sector partners, this initiative marks a significant milestone for sustainable agriculture in the region.
This training package is the first of its kind to be developed for Türkiye. It includes in-depth modules and activity guides to work alongside existing participatory training methods. The curriculum is currently available in English and Turkish.
This curriculum is an adaptation of the material that was previously launched by OCA for India in 2022 and Pakistan in 2023. As part of OCA’s wider capacity-building efforts in Türkiye, this initiative supports the long-term vision of a sustainable, transparent and fair organic (and now regenerative) cotton sector. One that rewards farmers and safeguards the ecosystems on which they and their communities depend.
What is new in this version?
The Türkiye edition of the OCTC introduces the curriculum’s first-ever regenerative agriculture module. This addition goes beyond earlier versions used in India and Pakistan, offering practical guidance on soil health, biodiversity and farm ecosystem resilience. OCA added this module to support farmers as they transition towards regenerative organic systems that are more climate-resilient, productive and environmentally responsible. Alongside agronomy, the curriculum introduces modules on farm management and digital literacy.
How does the Training Curriculum work?
The modules and activity guides are designed to be used by field staff during their visits to farmers and covers a range of topics from seed to harvest, and serves as a great introduction to understanding the growing season cycle.
OCTC Türkiye training modules English
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Organic farming and introduction to organic farming
This section provides an overview of cotton farming in Türkiye, difference between traditional and organic farming principles and an introduction to organic agriculture and certification.
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Regenerative cotton farming
An introduction to practical, field-tested regenerative practices that improve soil health, boost resilience, and support long-term productivity. Farmers learn how regenerative cotton systems are beneficial.
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Cotton types, varieties and seeds
Delving into the different cotton species and varieties, this module explains the importance of finding suitable cultivars and quality seeds for organic cotton, as well as practices preventing GM contamination.
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Land preparation, sowing and field managenement
In this module, we delve into soil variations suitable for cultivating organic cotton, the essential steps of land preparation, sowing techniques, and optimal spacing for cotton plants.
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The cotton plant
This section gives an understanding of the cotton plant and its development stages. Explore various components of the cotton plant, including the early season, mid-season, and late season.
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Soil health and plant nutrition
This module highlights the importance of healthy soils. It also covers organic soil fertility management, soil conservation practices, nutrient requirements specific to cotton, and the use of compost.
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Diseases, pests and weed management
This chapter centers on the selection of pest-resistant cultivars to sustain a thriving crop and safeguard the soil against pest infestations. It offers crucial insights into utilising bio inputs.
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Water management and irrigation
This module introduces the water requirements of cotton, exploring topics such as soil moisture conservation, rainfed cotton, and irrigation practices.
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Crop diversification
This module educates on the advantages of crop diversification, covering options, suitable crops, and recommendations. It also provides insights into organic management for the selection of alternative crops.
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Harvest and post-harvest
Within this module, we explore practices such as picking, addressing challenges like foreign fiber contamination. The focus is on best practices for both harvest and post-harvest handling by the farmer.
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Cotton production calendar
This module provides a summary of the various training and activities that a farm project would engage in throughout different stages of the cotton season in Türkiye.
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Farm management and literacy
Focused on enhancing business skills in organic farming, this module covers topics such as farm business planning and strategy, farm business performance assessment, financial management.
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Organic and regenerative certifications
It explains the fundamental principles of group certification, highlighting the function of the Internal Control System (ICS). It delves into the organic and regenerative certification process for smallholder farmers in grower groups.
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Trainer Handbook - Turkish
The Turkish version of the Trainer’s Handbook shares best practices on how field teams can best convey this knowledge to farmers.
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Trainer Handbook - English
The English version of the Trainer’s Handbook shares best practices on how field teams can best convey this knowledge to farmers.
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