From Africa to Holland: How Dutch Farms Are Shaping the Future of Agriculture
Tucked away in the quiet village of Kollum in Holland is a dairy farm with a twist. It’s not just a place where cows are milked and sheep graze—it’s a place where futures are shaped. This farm is more than a profession; it’s a global classroom.
The farm welcomes more than animals. It opens its gates to young, international trainees with big dreams. The Trainees are studying Animal Husbandry and came to the Netherlands to gain practical experience in European livestock farming.
A Day on the Farm
The interns live on-site, waking up early to join the daily rhythm of the farm. Their mornings start with milking cows, feeding the animals, and checking up on the livestock’s health. Under Herman’s guidance, they learn practical techniques and routines that keep a modern Dutch dairy farm running smoothly.
The work is hands-on: from learning to handle calves, to assisting with feed mixing, and even participating in detailed hoof care workshops during AccoFarm training days. The farm’s balance of tradition and technology gives interns a well-rounded view of farming as it’s done in one of the world’s most advanced agricultural regions.
More Than Just Work
But the experience doesn’t end in the barn. The interns are part of the family here. They’ve gone ice skating for the first time, shared laughs over hot chocolate, and celebrated birthdays the Dutch way—with cake, candles, and warm company.
In the photo, it shows them suited up in skating gear, laughing alongside the children and farmers on the ice. It’s clear they’re not just working here—they’re living and learning.
In the classroom, they’re joined by other interns from countries like Kenya, Ghana, and Nigeria. Together, they sit in on expert sessions, ask questions, take notes, and build friendships. One session focused on evaluating rear leg structure in cows—a critical skill in animal husbandry. It’s technical, but these trainees are here for it all.
The Bigger Picture
This program is part of a wider vision. AccoFarm helps place students from African agricultural schools on farms across the Netherlands to gain real-world experience. The idea? Build knowledge that can be brought back home and put to use in developing stronger, more efficient, and sustainable farming practices.
From early-morning chores to classroom lessons, community events, and snowy adventures, These Intern’s story is one of learning, laughter, and cultural exchange. They’re not just gaining skills—they’re gaining perspective.