The Centre Leader for CREATES-FNS, Prof Hulda Swai, has called for stronger linkages between universities and the industry. The Center for Research, Agricultural Advancement, Teaching Excellence and Sustainability in Food and Nutrition Security (CREATES-FNS) is based at the Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology in Arusha, Tanzania.
Prof Hulda made the remarks on 28th March 2022 while opening a training on Value Addition and Marketing of Agro-products. The training was organized and facilitated by CREATES-FNS for Mwambesi Women Group, a women empowerment group in Arusha.
“Strong linkage between universities and industry will stimulate production through training in goods and services,” said Prof. Hulda. She added that successful research findings and practical learning would develop skills required for innovation. Some research findings by the local experts have ended up on the shelves or computers instead of benefiting the target groups, and the time has come for universities to work closely with industry to disseminate useful research findings and knowledge to enhance productivity in all sectors, she said.
“We have to give back to the society through supporting their income generation projects,” she said as she handed over two baking ovens to the Mwambesi Women Group.
The Chairperson of Mwambesi Women Group, Ms.Yakuti Mwendwa, thanked CREATES-FNS Centre for the training and the ovens that will support them to produce more products.
CREATES – FNS has partnered with the Mwambesi Women Group to build their capacity in food and nutrition security. Mwambesi members were trained on post-harvest handling, good manufacturing practices, value addition and marketing of their farm produce.
Story by Orester Julius, Communication Officer, CREATES-FNS
