News

CORAF's Scientific and Technical Committee (STC) held a special session in Dakar, from February 20 to 21, 2023, to review the scientific quality of activities planned for 2023. The twelve (12) members of the STC also agreed on the approach, opportunities and challenges linked to the implementation of the West African Food System Resilience Program (FSRP). Indeed, CORAF has been mandated to lead Component 2 of the West African Food System Resilience Program (PRSA/FSRP), which focuses on the sustainability and adaptability of the food system's productive base.

As a reminder, the West African Food System Resilience Program (PRSA/FRSP) aims to strengthen the management of risks inherent in regional food systems, improve the sustainability of the production base in targeted areas, and develop regional agricultural markets. The program is managed by ECOWAS, CILSS and CORAF, and co-financed by the World Bank.

At the same time, STC members reviewed the achievements of CORAF's 2022 work plan, as well as CORAF's roadmap for 2023. Discussions were also held on the following points:

• Review of the draft concept note on the price of agricultural innovation ;
• Identification of relevant Master's and PhD subjects of regional interest for the African Food System Resilience Program (AFSRP/FRSP);
• Examination of the enrolment policy for master's and doctoral students.

In addition, the session provided a valuable opportunity to discuss collective experience and lessons learned from previous CORAF projects and programs, as well as approaches to solutions for effective implementation of agricultural research and innovation projects and programs.

The two-day CST was chaired by Prof Aissetou Dramé Yayé, President of the CST, and facilitated by CORAF's Director of Innovation and Research, Dr Emmanuel NJUKWE.