FAO and AFU Forge Partnership to Advance Agriculture in Nepal
Kathmandu,
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations and Nepal’s Agriculture and Forestry University (AFU) have officially solidified their collaboration through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at enhancing agricultural research and development in Nepal.
This partnership seeks to harness the collective expertise, knowledge networks, and resources of both entities to boost agricultural productivity, support rural communities, address climate challenges, and promote sustainable agrifood systems and food security across Nepal.
The MoU, signed by Mr. Ken Shimizu, FAO Representative for Bhutan and Nepal, and Prof. Dr. Punya Prasad Regmi, Vice Chancellor of AFU, underscores a shared commitment to leveraging research, knowledge exchange, technical expertise, and capacity building in the agriculture sector.
The signing ceremony, held in the esteemed presence of Nepal’s Prime Minister and AFU Chancellor Pushpa Kamal Dahal “Prachanda,” marks a pivotal moment in fostering agricultural innovation and resilience in Nepal.
Key Highlights of the MoU Include:
- Joint Project Design and Implementation: Collaborative efforts to execute impactful agricultural projects tailored to Nepal’s agricultural landscape.
- Knowledge Development and Exchange: Enhancing academic and research capabilities through shared insights, technologies, and best practices.
- Information Sharing: Facilitating data exchange, research findings, and best practices to inform evidence-based decision-making in agriculture, forestry, fishery, and livestock sectors.
FAO’s global expertise coupled with AFU’s local insights promises to empower Nepali farming communities and advance natural resource management practices. This partnership will not only benefit AFU faculties and students by enriching their academic and research pursuits but also set new benchmarks in agricultural innovation and sustainable practices.
By fostering collaboration and sharing resources, FAO and AFU aim to pave the way for improved agricultural productivity, enhanced food security, and sustainable livelihoods across Nepal. This strategic alliance underscores a collective commitment to achieving better production, nutrition, and environmental stewardship for the broader Nepali community.