Innovate UK Delegation Visits CSIR-Crops Research Institute
The CSIR-Crops Research Institute (CRI) recently hosted a delegation from Innovate UK, marking a significant step towards fostering collaboration and innovation in climate-smart agriculture. The visit, which took place on Thursday, February 20, 2025, provided an opportunity for the delegation to engage with CSIR-CRI on the Climate-Smart Agriculture Partnership Program.
Presentations and Discussions
The Deputy Director of CSIR-CRI, Dr. Ernest Baafi, delivered a comprehensive presentation on the Institute’s vision, mission, and research focus. He highlighted CSIR-CRI’s position as the largest of the thirteen institutions under the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) of Ghana. Dr. Eric Owusu Danquah’s presentation focused on climate-smart technologies for sustainable intensification and resilient food production. He emphasized the importance of agroforestry in enhancing ecosystem services, improving soil health, and increasing biodiversity.
The Innovate UK delegation engaged in an interactive discussion with the CSIR-CRI team, clarifying and seeking additional information on the Climate-Smart Agriculture Partnership Program and potential areas of collaboration.
Laboratory Visits
The delegation visited the Biotechnology Centre, Tissue Culture Laboratory, and Molecular Laboratory, gaining valuable insights into CSIR-CRI’s research activities and capabilities.
At the Tissue Culture Laboratory, the delegation learned about plant tissue culture techniques and their applications in crop improvement, conservation, and food security.
The Molecular Laboratory tour introduced the delegation to cutting-edge techniques used to analyze and manipulate DNA and other genetic materials.
Conclusion
The visit by Innovate UK to CSIR-CRI paved the way for potential future collaborations aiming to promote sustainable agricultural practices, enhance climate resilience, and drive agricultural development in Ghana.
Authors: Ms. Lynda G.S. Nsafoah, Ms. Linda Agyeman, Ms. Clara Boateng
Publisher: Enoch Bobie Agyemang
