Master’s Degree in Olive Growing and Olive Technology – 16th edition

The IOC takes part in the inauguration of the sixteenth edition of the Master’s Degree in Olive Growing and Olive Technology at the University of Córdoba

The official opening ceremony of the 16th edition of the Master’s Degree in Olive Growing and Olive Technology at the University of Córdoba took place on 7 October 2025, presided over by the university’s Rector, Manuel Torralbo Rodríguez.

The event brought together representatives from the institutions partnering in this flagship programme: Francisco Ramón Acosta Rosa (CAPADR), Raúl Compés (IAMZ-CIHEAM), María Leire Molinero (IAS-CSIC), Darío Reina Giménez (IFAPA), and Concepción Muñoz Díez, Director of the Master’s programme. The International Olive Council (IOC) was represented by Lhassane Sikaoui, Head of the Olive Growing, Olive Oil Technology and Environment Unit.

Speakers highlighted the importance of this Master’s programme—the oldest of its kind at the University of Córdoba, established in 1995—as well as the exemplary cooperation among the institutions that contribute to its success. They also welcomed the appointment of Concepción Muñoz Díez as Programme Director and extended their best wishes for the success of this new edition.

This 16th edition runs over two years and welcomes 20 students from 11 countries: Algeria, Argentina, Belgium, Egypt, Spain, Iran, Italy, Morocco, Portugal, Tunisia and Türkiye. The IOC contributes to the programme through the award of three scholarships and by supporting the update of teaching content to incorporate innovative approaches that respond to the current needs of the olive sector.

The ceremony concluded with an inaugural lecture by Iñaki Benito Otazu, Director General of the Fundación Patrimonio Comunal Olivarero, on the topic: “Market regulation mechanisms in the olive sector.”