ICP Nematology Connect

Duration

2022-2027

Lead institutions

Universiteit Gent

Moi University , International Institute of Tropical Agriculture Kenya , International Center of Insect Physiology and Ecology , CABI Kenya

Academic partners

Wim Bert

Njira Njira Pili , Daniel Leigh Coyne , Solveig Haukeland , Peter Karanja

Project status

Ongoing

Programme

ICP Connect

Total budget

750,000.00

Summary

The future of agriculture in Africa is threatened and if plant-parasitic nematodes are left unmanaged, these pests could have a catastrophic effect on agricultural productivity, whereas other nematodes which have enormous potential for biological control of insect pests remain unexploited. However, limited awareness and knowledge of nematology has resulted in a lack of trained nematologists and professionals in both non-profit and private sectors, impacting everyone from grassroot farmers to policy makers.

The current project aims to impact the status of nematology education on the long-term by (1) implementing nematology modules in existing university curricula ; (2) creating a joint master programme in nematology with centres of excellence in sub–Saharan Africa; (3) building nematology capacity in agricultural extension through curriculum development and staff training. Furthermore, the sustainable creation of nematology networks will be ensured to connect all stakeholders, to enable collaboration and life-long nematology learning.