Bangkok--24 Jun--Asian Instiute of Technology
A four-member delegation of the Japan International Research Center for Agricultural Sciences (JIRCAS) visited the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) on 17 June 2016 to explore on food value chain development including food value additions, marketing and processing, and ICT technology.
Led by Dr. Satoshi Uchida, Director of Social Sciences Division, and Project Leader of Food Value Chain, the delegation included Dr. Fumika Sen, Sub-Project Leader of Food Value Chain; Dr. Kensuke Kawamura, Member of Food Value Chain Project; and Dr. Gen Takao, Director of Forestry Division and Project Leader of Higher Value Forestry.
Elaborating on the "Food Value Chain," Dr. Uchida stated that they were interested in engaging with AIT experts in food quality, supply and demand analysis of major food products, and applicability of ICT technologies including remote sensing for optimal agricultural food production.
Welcoming the delegation, AIT President Prof. Worsak Kanok-Nukulchai stated that the visit from JIRCAS was timely since the Government of Thailand has initiated the Food Innopolis project where AIT is an active partner. He invited JIRCAS to partner with AIT in this venture, which is focussed on food related research and development. Prof. Worsak also stated that AIT's is actively engaged with conducting research for the benefit of mankind, rather than concentrating on research for economic gain.
AIT was represented by Prof. Kazuo Yamamoto, Vice President for Resource Development (VPRD); Dr. Hiroyuki Konuma, Senior Advisor to the President; Dr. Rajendra Shrestha, Dr. Avishek Datta, Dr. Nguyen Loc Thai, and Dr. Ram C Bhujel of School of Environment, Resources and Development (SERD); Dr. Masahiko Nagai and Dr. Shinichi Nakamura from School of Engineering and Technology (SET); and Mr, Shawn Kelly and Ms. Sumana Shrestha of External Relations and Communications Office (ERCO).
Photo shows AIT President Prof. Worsak Kanok-Nukulchai, (7th from left) welcoming JIRCAS delegation led by Dr. Satoshi Uchida (8th from left), Director of Social Sciences Division, and Project Leader of Food Value Chain