Professors from U.S. universities visit CATIE in search of scientific collaboration

• Kentucky State University and Alabama A&M University explore cooperation opportunities with CATIE in Costa Rica.

June 9, 2023. CATIE (Tropical Agricultural Research and Higher Education Center) hosted professors from Kentucky State University (KSU) and Alabama A&M University (AAMU) at its headquarters in Costa Rica for a visit aimed at exploring opportunities for collaboration in education, research and scientific communications. From May 22-26, academic experts from both U.S. universities immersed themselves in discussions with CATIE, opening new perspectives for a stronger and more fruitful joint collaboration.

The collaboration between KSU, AAMU and CATIE covers a wide range of areas of mutual interest. The professors had the opportunity to share research and knowledge on topics such as geospatial applications and analysis, land use change studies, forestry, watershed management, aquaculture, landscape management and natural resource monitoring, as well as climate change, among others.

Outstanding outcomes of this collaboration could include the exchange of research findings, joint collaborative projects, shared resources, and possible academic exchanges or internships for students and faculty. This experience has laid the groundwork for a closer and more enduring academic relationship between U.S. universities and CATIE, promoting research, education and the development of science and technology.

During the visit, KSU and AAMU professors had the opportunity to learn in depth about various aspects of the work carried out by CATIE. They participated in field visits to secondary forest management areas and restoration plots, which allowed them to get a practical view of the projects under development. They also attended presentations on initiatives such as the Repurpose with Purpose project, in partnership with Southwest Airlines, and the goat module. They also interacted with key Center departments such as the Inclusive Green Development Research Division and the Climate Action Unit. These interactions gave the professors a deeper understanding of the work being done at CATIE and generated discussions on possible opportunities for future cooperation.

Although the collaboration between CATIE, KSU and AAMU is recent, it is expected that this relationship will continue and strengthen in the future. Plans and expectations for this cooperation include the possibility of developing more collaborative projects, fostering academic exchanges between students and faculty, as well as expanding the collaboration to other areas of mutual interest. This partnership promises to contribute significantly to scientific and technological advancement in areas of global importance.