Applications are now open for the 19th edition of the IPROMO International Summer School, a globally recognized training programme dedicated to sustainable mountain development and pastoral systems. The 2026 edition will bring together professionals, researchers, and practitioners working at the intersection of climate resilience, biodiversity conservation, and mountain livelihoods.

About the Programme

The 2026 IPROMO Summer School focuses on mountain rangelands and pastoral communities, exploring how ecological systems, traditional knowledge, governance, and innovation can strengthen climate-resilient mountain economies.

Mountain rangelands are vital working landscapes that support biodiversity conservation, food systems, carbon storage, and water regulation. Managed through pastoral and agro-pastoral practices, these ecosystems sustain both local livelihoods and global environmental stability.

The course combines scientific research, policy dialogue, and field-based learning, enabling participants to understand the complex challenges facing mountain regions, including climate change impacts, land degradation, food insecurity, and shifting socio-economic dynamics.

Programme Details

• Theme: Mountain Rangelands and Pastoralists: Knowledge, Climate Resilience and Biodiversity Preservation
• Location: Ormea, Italy
• Dates: 13 – 23 July 2026
• Format: In-person international summer school
• Language: English

Participants will engage in lectures, group discussions, seminars, and field excursions across Alpine mountain landscapes.

Learning Objectives

The programme aims to:

• Strengthen understanding of sustainable mountain development frameworks
• Explore climate adaptation and resilience strategies in mountain ecosystems
• Examine governance and policy approaches affecting pastoral communities
• Integrate scientific knowledge with traditional and indigenous practices
• Promote biodiversity preservation through sustainable rangeland management
• Build professional networks supporting mountain research and action

Programme Structure

The learning experience includes:

• Expert lectures from international organizations, universities, and UN agencies
• Interactive workshops and collaborative group work
• Field visits across mountain rangelands surrounding Ormea
• Policy discussions on pastoral systems and food security
• Practical exercises linking research with real-world implementation

Participants will join an established global alumni network of mountain development professionals and researchers.

Expected Outcomes

By the end of the programme, participants will:

• Gain advanced knowledge of mountain pastoral systems
• Understand climate risks affecting high-altitude ecosystems
• Develop tools to promote resilient mountain livelihoods
• Strengthen advocacy and policy engagement skills
• Expand international collaboration opportunities

Why IPROMO 2026 Matters

As global attention grows around sustainable land management and the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists 2026, the programme contributes to strengthening investment, governance, and knowledge exchange supporting mountain communities worldwide.

Don't miss out on the application deadline which is 24 April 2026 through the official application platform..