The fact that post-harvest physiological deterioration (PPD) is one of the most significant bottlenecks in cassava processing chains may be nothing new, as it is one of the biggest challenges facing cassava producers, but that three young scientists have keen interest in a long-term effort to tackle this challenge proves quite encouraging. Luis Augusto Becerra, molecular biologist at CIAT’s Cassava Program,... More

This article on Michael Osei, the YPARD Ghana representative was orginally published by CTA in Spore Magazine, No 164, June-July edition, which can be found here.  In Africa, young agricultural researchers in the public sector face many obstacles. Despite their passion, they are often tempted to leave institutional research centres to join private companies, or even work abroad. Yet, public-private partnerships... More

The concept of agricultural innovation has been the most intriguing and interesting subjects in Africa for several reasons. Firstly, most African countries still grapple with acute poverty and food insecurity. Yet, Africa has the best resources for agriculture i.e. good land for agricultural production and hard working people. Secondly, Africa has a burgeoning young population which is expected to be innovative... More

I would like to share my good news to all YPARD members, and also show my great gratitude to YPARD. I had got the chance for summer school "Sustainable Agriculture and the World Food System" held by World Food System Center, ETH Zurich, August 11th - 25th 2013, in Rheinau, Switzerland. I noticed this summer school application call on www.YPARD.net in April,... More