Education and training

Vocational education and training

After more than seventy years of hemp prohibition, rebuilding knowledge and qualifications in the hemp sector has become a central challenge for modern vocational education. While hemp was a major economic resource until the 19th century, legal restrictions introduced in 1929 led to a complete loss of practical know-how and occupational structures.

Since the reauthorization of industrial hemp cultivation in 1996, systematic education and recognized qualifications have been largely absent. The Linnaeus Competence Center for Hemp therefore develops new vocational education and training approaches that bridge tradition and innovation.

Its practice-oriented programs are grounded in scientific research and support the sustainable transformation of agriculture, industry, and crafts.

Initial vocational education and training

Initial vocational training forms the foundation of a modern hemp economy. Its objective is to equip young professionals with the skills needed across the entire Cannabis sativa L. value chain—from agricultural cultivation and processing to product development, technical applications, and material science.

The Linnaeus Competence Center Hemp cooperates with training companies, chambers, and educational institutions to ensure that training content is both practical and forward-looking. Particular emphasis is placed on integrating sustainability standards into curricula, promoting environmental awareness, and fostering expertise in circular production systems and bio-based materials.

Continuing vocational education

Continuing vocational education targets professionals and executives seeking to deepen their expertise, enter new fields, or align their operations with sustainable practices. It offers hands-on qualification modules in cultivation, processing, quality assurance, product development, and regulatory compliance.

The Center also develops modular training formats that address emerging technologies such as biopolymers, renewable energy, and innovative bio-based materials. The overarching aim is to empower professionals across agriculture, crafts, and industry to actively shape the transition toward a circular, bio-based economy.

Higher education

In the field of higher education, the Linnaeus Competence Center for Hemp collaborates with national and international universities to develop academic programs and research projects focused on industrial hemp. The goal is to combine scientific excellence with practical relevance and to open new career paths for students in research, technology, and sustainable business development.

Together with academic and industry partners, the Center initiates new degree programs, certificate courses, and research collaborations addressing material science, circular economy, agroecology, and regulatory aspects of Cannabis sativa L.. In doing so, it contributes to the academic recognition and professionalization of a rapidly emerging industry.