Deputy Vice Chancellor Associate Professor Saphina Biira has officially opened a workshop on orange-fleshed sweet potatoes, organized by the Faculty of Agriculture and Animal Sciences in collaboration with Century Green at Hursey Resort Hotel in Soroti. The engagement workshop focused on a Science and Technology Innovation (STI) funded project themed "Strengthening the Orange-Fleshed Sweet Potato and Agro-Science Park." 

The team from Century Green, led by their CEO, Mr. Vincent Anigbogu, presented their findings and progress on the project. The Minister of Science and Technology, Hon. Monica Musenero, is expected to inspect the project site tomorrow, Wednesday, 31st January 2024, in Soroti. The project aims to promote the cultivation and utilization of orange-fleshed sweet potatoes in Uganda, as a means of addressing vitamin A deficiency and improving nutrition among communities. 

The workshop brought together researchers, policymakers, and stakeholders in the agriculture sector to discuss the project's progress and challenges, and to identify ways to enhance its impact. Speaking at the workshop, Deputy Vice Chancellor Biira emphasized the importance of collaboration between academia, industry, and government in addressing food security and nutrition challenges. She commended the partnership between the Faculty of Agriculture and Animal Sciences and Century Green, and expressed optimism that the project would contribute significantly to improving the livelihoods of farmers and communities in the region. 

The workshop provided a platform for stakeholders to share their experiences and expertise, and to develop strategies for scaling up the production and consumption of orange-fleshed sweet potatoes in Uganda. The Minister's visit to the project site is expected to further highlight the government's commitment to supporting agricultural research and innovation for improved food security and nutrition.