By Andi Anderson
The International Service for the Acquisition of Agri-biotech Applications (ISAAA) AfriCenter and Iowa State University have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to advance agricultural innovation and collaboration in Africa.
The agreement, signed in November 2024, establishes a framework for joint efforts in teaching, research, and outreach.
The partnership seeks to strengthen the entrepreneurial ecosystem in science, technology, and innovation, while also fostering a deeper understanding of economic, cultural, and social issues.
Faculty, staff, and students from both institutions will benefit through joint initiatives, research exchanges, and study opportunities at partner institutions.
“We are excited to collaborate with ISAAA AfriCenter to champion a multidisciplinary approach in developing innovative solutions that address the challenges faced by African communities in achieving their food and nutrition needs,” said Daniel J. Robison, dean of Iowa State’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.
He emphasized that such global collaborations allow Iowa State to fulfill its land-grant mission of advancing agriculture with both local and global impact.
The MOU will also equip researchers with tools to communicate their findings effectively, ensuring that research outputs are translated into societal benefits.
By building capacity in entrepreneurship and outreach, the collaboration aims to connect research with communities and attract investment for commercialization.
“Formalizing this partnership with Iowa State marks a significant step forward in our shared commitment to making science matter by connecting research outputs with societal benefits,” said Margaret Karembu, director of ISAAA AfriCenter.
She added that ongoing collaborations with the ISU Seed Science Center and ISU Startup Factory are already producing results by equipping innovators with the skills to pitch ideas, thereby improving research impact.
This agreement strengthens the bond between the two institutions, positioning them to play a leading role in developing agricultural solutions that address food and nutrition challenges across Africa.
Photo Credit: iowa-state-university
Categories: Iowa, Education