A new agriculture scholarship and research grant – supported by the U.S. government – was launched at Cambodia’s Royal University of Agriculture (RUA) today in a ceremony observed by the Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, H.E. Veng Sakhon and U.S. Ambassador William A. Heidt. 

The scholarship and research grant will provide successful applicants an opportunity to pursue graduate degrees and conduct agricultural research. It is hoped that these resources will help RUA develop innovative agricultural technologies and strategies while coordinating the country’s agricultural research, education, and training. The scholarship and research grant are supported by the U.S. Government’s Feed the Future Initiative through the Center of Excellence on Sustainable Agricultural Intensification and Nutrition (CE SAIN).

“We believe the new CE SAIN will offer Cambodia’s future agriculture professionals the training and research support they need to succeed,” said RUA Rector H.E. Dr. Ngo Bunthan.

Today’s launch follows a competitive call for applications on scholarship and research grants released on May 21, 2017. A committee of international professors and scientists reviewed the applications.

The U.S. Government’s Feed the Future Innovation Labs have worked in partnership with RUA since 2010 and have produced proven, new technologies for Cambodia. Through the CE SAIN, RUA works with partners in both the public and private sectors to bring these agricultural technologies to Cambodian farmers. Additionally, private companies, members of academia, government agencies, and NGOs have showcased their cutting-edge sustainable agricultural intensification and nutrition technologies to citizens, investors, policy makers and donor agencies.

“We are pleased to support the work of RUA, which has partnered with some of the top U.S. universities to improve agriculture and food security in Cambodia," noted Ambassador Heidt. "This scholarship and research grant program will continue the drive to improve lives for all Cambodians.”

For more information:

Dr. Lyda Hok

Center Director of CE SAIN

E-mail: hoklyda@rua.edu.kh