A collaborative initiative has been launched between the University of Fiji and the Sugar Research Institute of Fiji (SRIF), marked by a new five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This partnership grants the university a significant role in formulating the strategic plan for SRIF, in compliance with the Sugar Research Institute of Fiji Act 2005.
Professor Shaista Shameem, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Fiji, pointed out that SRIF’s extensive legal mandate encompasses a range of research areas related to the sugar industry, including technical, social, scientific, and commercial factors. The collaboration aims to bolster support for sugarcane farmers, enhance quality incentives, and address vital concerns such as land use, environmental sustainability, and overall industry development.
As part of the MOU, the university will also focus on training and building the capacity of SRIF staff and other stakeholders, including farmers. This initiative not only establishes a framework for joint industry efforts aligned with sustainable development goals but also supports Fiji’s dedication to addressing climate change.
Moreover, the partnership is set to create specialized training programs and short courses that meet the legislative requirements of SRIF and the broader sugar industry. It will offer students valuable internship and attachment opportunities with SRIF, thereby enriching their academic experiences and equipping them with essential skills needed in the sugar sector.
This partnership is timely, given the ongoing challenges confronting the sugar industry, and complements other collaborative efforts to enhance agricultural practices in Fiji. Notably, a recent agreement between SRIF and Fiji Rice Limited focuses on integrated farming and efficient land use, aimed at improving the livelihoods of local farming communities.
Overall, this strategic collaboration stands to reinforce educational systems, advocate for sustainable agricultural practices, and significantly contribute to the economic resilience of Fiji’s sugar industry, fostering a hopeful outlook for the future of agriculture in the region.
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