Bangkok--15 Jan--Asian Institute of Technology
Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to develop innovative approaches in research, education and capacity building in the field of food and agriculture.
The MoU was signed by Mr. Hiroyuki Konuma, Assistance Director-General and Regional Representative for Asia and the Pacific, and Prof. Worsak Kanok-Nukulchai, Interim President, Asian Institute of Technology (AIT), at FAO’s Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific on 10 January 2013.
Stating that AIT is one of the most important institutions which deals with regional issues, Mr. Konuma remarked that the role played by AIT is “very highly recognized.” Stressing the importance of AIT, Mr. Konuma added that he always participated in the AIT graduation ceremony to watch the young generation graduate. He stated that FAO and AIT have always enjoyed a “very fruitful collaboration,” and that this MoU would bring the two closer.
Quoting instances of joint work, he mentioned the implementation of the joint program on “Save Food Campaign” by AIT and FAO, which was regarded as a very successful event. FAO has also assisted AIT in design of new curriculum in aquaculture and forestry. The FAO ADG said that “FAO recognizes the importance of partnerships,” as he cited the example of EU funded project on System of Rice Intensification (SRI) where AIT and FAO are working together.
“This is a meaningful partnership that will provide opportunities for joint collaboration relating to FAO’s regional priorities,” said Mr. Konuma. “Through this MoU, AIT and FAO will continue to pursue regional capacity development designed to tackle poverty and improve food security through sustainable agricultural intensification and the development of greener technology.”
Prof. Worsak highlighted the historic role of AIT in serving the region. Stating that AIT was not a traditional university, the AIT President mentioned the strategic contribution of the Institute in developing this region. “In order to achieve sustainable development for all there is a need to have strong linkages between academic institutes and development organizations,” said Prof. Worsak. “FAO and AIT have a history of complementing each other’s work and today’s agreement formalizes our desire for increased collaboration,” he added.
Senior officials of FAO also participated in the event. Besides Prof. Worsak, AIT was represented by Dr. Prabhat Kumar, Director, Asian Centre of Innovation for Sustainable Agriculture Intensification (ACISAI); Dr. Abha Misra, Co-Director, ACISAI; and Dr. Avishek Datta, Assistant Professor, School of Environment, Resources and Development (SERD).
Photo caption: Mr. Hiroyuki Konuma (left) with Prof. Worsak Kanok-Nukulchai.