By Andi Anderson
Michigan State University (MSU) Professor Evangelyn Alocilja recently engaged in discussions with the Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (Searca) to explore potential collaborations in research, innovation, capacity building, and publication aimed at advancing agriculture in Southeast Asia.
During her visit to Searca on May 28, Prof. Alocilja was briefed on the center’s mandate, core programs, and various initiatives by Gerlie Tatlonghari, the head of the Research and Thought Leadership Department.
Tatlonghari introduced the Consortium for Agricultural Development, Research and Extension (Cadre), a planned network designed to address the region’s agricultural challenges through collaborative research and extension support.
The meeting also highlighted Searca’s current projects, including innovation competitions like the Young Agripreneurs Building Opportunities, Nurturing Growth (Yabong) Bootcamp and Innovation Olympics 2.0.
These initiatives aim to empower young farmers and develop innovative solutions for smallholder vegetable farmers in both urban and rural settings.
Alocilja shared insights into MSU’s annual innovation challenge, which invites students and professionals worldwide to address pressing global issues.
She expressed interest in aligning this with Searca’s efforts, particularly in entrepreneurial engineering and mentorship programs.
The discussions touched on academic collaborations, with Searca senior program head Maria Cristeta Cuaresma speaking about partnerships with leading universities for the Erasmus+ capacity-building project on Postgraduate Micro-Credentials for Food Security and Climate Change.
The dialogue also included plans for the upcoming 20th anniversary issue of the "Asian Journal for Agriculture and Development" (Ajad), where Alocilja is set to contribute a roadmap for reengineering agricultural innovation in Southeast Asia.
The visit, hosted by Searca Director Glenn Gregorio, was a comprehensive overview of potential synergies between MSU and Searca, aiming to leverage academic and practical expertise to foster sustainable agricultural practices and innovation across Southeast Asia.
This meeting underscores a continued commitment to enhancing the agricultural sector through international cooperation and shared knowledge.
Photo Credit: michigan-state-univsersity-msu
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