From April 22nd to 24th, AF4EU consortium partners gathered in the picturesque town of Zvolen, Slovakia, for a three-day meeting hosted by our partners from the National Forest Centre. This event marked an important moment for advancing the project’s work packages and strengthening collaborative efforts in agroforestry advisory systems during this last year of the project.
The meeting kicked off with a focused discussion on the alignment of project goals across various work packages. Partners exchanged insights on progress and next steps, reinforcing our shared commitment to support sustainable and innovative agroforestry across Europe.
A significant feature of the event was the CECRA training course. Over the course of two modules, participants explored key aspects of rural advisory work — including communication strategies and advisory methodologies — equipping themselves with tools to foster greater innovation in agricultural landscapes.
In addition to the intensive training and discussions, participants were immersed in the cultural richness of Central Slovakia. Day two included a field trip to Hriňová, a town nestled in the rolling hills of the Central Slovak Carpathians. The visit highlighted traditional farming practices and offered a scenic view of Mount Ďumbier, the highest peak of the region.
The meeting concluded on a high note with a visit to the Research Institute of Fruit and Decorative Trees in Bojnice. Attendees toured the institute’s facilities and learned about innovative approaches in fruit cultivation. A tasting session of locally-produced fruits followed, blending science with Slovakia’s culinary traditions.
To close, the consortium toured Bojnice Castle — a fairy-tale setting perfect for reflection and celebration of our shared journey so far.
