A delegation from the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS) visited Addis Ababa University and held discussions on strengthening the collaborative platform between the two institutions on October 26, 2016.

Jeilu Oumer (Ph.D.), AAU’s Academic Vice President, welcomed the delegation led by Prof. Li Jinxiang, Vice President of CAAS, in his office and received CAAS’s intent to work with AAU.

Prof. Li, in his statement of intent, reminded those in attendance that food security and agro production are potential areas of interest which were previously identified by the two institutions. He went on to indicate that the two sides proposed to expand the scope of the collaboration into other areas of mutual interest while looking for international funding jointly.

He further stated that CAAS, being home to the largest agricultural library in Asia, is willing to provide technical assistance for AAU staff and students through staff and student exchange platforms.

Jeilu Oumer (Ph.D.) for his part noted that AAU could learn a lot from CAAS in terms of conducting scientific researches that support the development of one’s home country.

He also identified the College of Development Studies, College of Veterinary Medicine and Agriculture, and the Institute of Biotechnology as potential collaborating units from AAU’s side.

Established in 1957, the CAAS is a national, integrated agricultural scientific research organization that carries out both basic and applied research, as well as research into new technologies impacting agriculture.