Partnership to Strengthen Graduate Training and Research Capacity for developing climate smart agrifood systems in Central and East Africa

ongoing

Central and East Africa have vast agricultural potential and rich biodiversity, but face challenges like rapid population growth, food security concerns, and climate change impacts. The region relies heavily on smallholder farmers, who produce for household income and food security. The two regions are experiencing warmer and drier conditions, with rising temperatures impacting agriculture, water resources, and human health. Agro-food systems, involving billions of people, contribute up to 24% of global GHG emissions and undernourish 820 million people. Transaction costs and information asymmetries hinder profitable transactions, despite the abundance of food in the world. The overarching objective of the proposed Action is to strengthen the graduate training and research capacity of higher education institutions (HEIs) in Central and East Africa to develop climate-smart agrifood systems. Specifically, this partnership seeks to:(1)Enhance the capacity of HEI staff to conduct research and generate evidence-based knowledge on climate-smart practices, technologies, and policies for agrifood systems in the region. (2) Strengthen technical and professional skill development to enhance the employability of graduates. (3) Mainstream gender and inclusivity in HEIs' academic programs and broader research for development undertakings. (4) Promote inclusive academic mobility and partnerships between HEIs, universities, and research institutions to address key challenges in developing climate-smart agrifood systems. (5) Develop or strengthen the curriculum on Climate-Smart Agrifood Systems in HEIs.(6)Strengthen climate data and information systems using digital tools. (7)Promote entrepreneurship and agribusiness development. HEIs will form networks and consortia with other institutions in Africa to facilitate knowledge sharing, research projects, joint publications, and exchange of expertise. SLU will be a technical partner.