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The ACCI: a new
model for developing PhD. graduates in Africa
M.D.
Laing
Historically,
universities in the USA and EU have trained a multitude of African
scientists at the MSc and PhD levels, often at the highest level, in
"cutting-edge" research.
However, this approach presents several limitation for producing
active, functional scientists operating in Africa.
International funding agencies have therefore been looking for
alternative training models. The University of Natal and Rockefeller
Foundation have developed a new model, based on two years of academic
training for each student at the University of Natal, followed by three
years in their home country, undertaking research in their national
research programs. This
model will ensure that African research on African crops is undertaken
with appropriate technologies. We
hope it will also ensure a high level of retention of scientists in
their home countries. Our initial goal was to train five cohorts of 10 PhD students
per annum, for a total of 50 PhD graduates in plant breeding.
The first cohort of students from six countries in SSA, started
in 2002. Training will be
undertaken by both established and newly-hired staff.
International lecturers will provide short courses.
Field research supervision will be from three sources: the
University of Natal, local scientists, and international supervisors.
The external supervisors will visit students during the year.
If this program fulfills its potential, then it can provide a
model for the training of African scientists in a range of agricultural
subjects, such as plant pathology and soil science.
In particular, there is a critical need to train seed scientists
and in the production, storage and marketing of seed and tubers to
ensure that there is a full chain of technology from original breeding,
to seed production, to marketing and distribution, and to the successful
growing of improved, adopted varieties by farmers.
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