In the heart of Europe, two neighboring countries, Hungary and Serbia, are grappling with distinct yet interconnected challenges in their local food systems. A recent study published in the journal *Open Agriculture* (which translates to *Open Agriculture* in English) sheds light on the strategic role of agricultural vocational training in fostering sustainable local food systems, particularly for smallholder farms. The research, led by Kiss Vendel from the Department of Humanities and Vocational Education at the Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, offers a nuanced look at the economic and social dynamics shaping the future of small-scale agriculture.
The study, which analyzed statistical data from 2015 to 2024, reveals a stark contrast between the two countries. While Hungary boasts higher income levels, inflation has placed a significant burden on households, making it difficult for smallholder farms to compete. In Serbia, lower purchasing power and weaker infrastructure present their own set of challenges, limiting market opportunities for small producers. “The differences between Hungary and Serbia are profound, but the need for sustainable solutions is universal,” notes Kiss Vendel. “Both countries are struggling to create resilient local food systems that can support smallholder farms in the long term.”
The research highlights several promising paths toward greater resilience, including biodistricts, cooperative models, and agrobiomass utilization. However, these solutions can only succeed if farmers possess a diverse set of skills, including technical expertise, market savvy, financial acumen, and digital literacy. This is where agricultural vocational training plays a crucial role. “Farmers need to be equipped with the right skills to adapt to rapidly changing economic and social environments,” explains Kiss Vendel. “Vocational training is not just about teaching technical skills; it’s about empowering farmers to navigate complex market structures and build sustainable businesses.”
The commercial implications of this research are significant, particularly for the energy sector. As the world shifts towards more sustainable and localized food systems, the demand for innovative solutions in energy production and utilization is set to rise. Agrobiomass, for instance, offers a promising avenue for renewable energy, but its potential can only be fully realized if farmers are trained to integrate these practices into their operations. “The energy sector has a vested interest in supporting agricultural vocational training,” says Kiss Vendel. “By investing in the skills of smallholder farmers, we can unlock new opportunities for sustainable energy production and create a more resilient food system.”
The study also underscores the importance of understanding local market structures and consumer price trends. In Hungary, for example, the harmonized index of consumer prices has revealed significant fluctuations, which can have a profound impact on the viability of smallholder farms. In Serbia, the cost of a healthy diet remains a major concern, highlighting the need for solutions that can improve affordability and accessibility. “The challenges are complex, but the solutions are within reach,” says Kiss Vendel. “By focusing on vocational training and sustainable practices, we can create a future where smallholder farms thrive and local food systems are resilient.”
As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change, economic inequality, and food security, the insights from this research offer a beacon of hope. By investing in agricultural vocational training and fostering sustainable practices, we can create a future where smallholder farms are not just viable but thriving. The energy sector, in particular, has a crucial role to play in this transition, and the commercial opportunities are vast. As Kiss Vendel aptly puts it, “The future of our food systems depends on our ability to adapt and innovate. With the right skills and the right support, we can build a more sustainable and resilient world.”