FSLI International
As food and agricultural systems around the world become increasingly interconnected, FSLI Fellows benefit from understanding how international agriculture influences local communities, industries, universities, and food systems. Costa Rica’s rich agricultural diversity, commitment to sustainability, and strong higher education institutions made it an ideal setting to explore global agriculture, food production, and innovative approaches to research, teaching, and extension.
Fellows from Cohorts 19 and 20 participated in a five-day international learning experience designed to broaden their understanding of agricultural systems and leadership in a global context. Highlights of the experience included visits to:
- University of Costa Rica, where Fellows learned about agricultural research, extension, and academic programs supporting Costa Rican agriculture.
- Ball Horticultural Company’s Linda Vista facility, which showcased innovation in greenhouse production, plant propagation, and global horticultural systems.
- EARTH University, where Fellows explored sustainable agricultural education and observed the university’s banana production operation.
- CATIE (Tropical Agricultural Research and Higher Education Center), a globally recognized institution focused on sustainable agriculture, food systems, and natural resource management.
- Guayabo Lodge, where Fellows harvested coffee, learned about coffee production from farm to cup, and prepared traditional Costa Rican patacones.
- Sibú Chocolate, where participants explored cacao production and value-added food entrepreneurship.
- Local dairy and strawberry farms, providing insight into regional agricultural practices and farm management.
- The scenic agricultural regions surrounding Poás Volcano, highlighting the relationship between natural resources and agricultural production.
The experience provided Fellows with valuable perspectives on global food systems while strengthening the relationships and networks that are central to the FSLI leadership experience.
FSLI International Summary