The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), an African-based International not-for-profit research -for-development organisation has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Osun State University to ensure food security, reduce rural poverty as well as reduce under-nutrition across Africa.The Deputy Director, General-Partnership and Capacity Development Dr Kenton Dashell signed on behalf of IITA while the Vice Chancellor of Osun State University Prof. Adekunle Bashiru Okesina signed for the University.
According to the MOU both parties agreed to encourage collaboration concerning, but not limited to the following: Exchange of scientific information and develop specific cooperative programmes and projects especially with the College of Agriculture on Cassava, Yam, Soybean and Maize research; Linkages between IITA and UNIOSUN Scientists; Consultative meetings and personal visits between both institutions; Placement and or exchange of students and staff; Exchange of research materials, publications and other materials of common interest; Inclusion of results of collaborative research, either in full or in summary, in UNIOSUN and IITA reports.
Both parties acknowledged that knowledge, data and know-how gained under the MOU will be made available to the National Agricultural Research Systems, available for humanitarian purposes and benefits of any intellectual property created as part of this MOU will be accessible to the public throughout the developing countries of the world.