South African delegation explores millet research at University of Hyderabad
Hyderabad: A South African delegation from the Department of Science and Innovation-National Research Foundation (DSI-NRF) Centre for Excellence in Indigenous Knowledge Systems (CIKS), University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa, visited the University of Hyderabad (UoH) on July 21, 2024.
The five-member delegation included Prof. Vivian Ojong, Prof. Hassan Kaya, Prof. Yonah Seleti, Dr. Mayashree Chinsamy, and Tez Mothibe. They were welcomed by Prof. B. J. Rao, Vice-Chancellor, who highlighted the potential benefits of collaboration between the University of Hyderabad and the University of KwaZulu-Natal. He emphasized the University of Hyderabad’s unique position as the only central university focusing on the omics of millets.
During discussions, it was revealed that both universities are set to sign an MoU to promote millet research, resource sharing, academic exchanges, support for millet start-ups, and distance learning programs. Prof. Rao stressed the need to identify synergistic areas for partnership to facilitate knowledge sharing and capacity building in millet research.
Prof. Kaya underscored the collaboration’s importance in contributing to the economic growth and social upliftment of millet farmers. Prof. Ojong proposed joint doctoral programs and thematic training involving students from both countries in millet-related research. Dr. Chinsamy elaborated on CIKS’s mandate to integrate Indigenous knowledge into the global knowledge economy, emphasizing the visit’s relevance in advancing this goal.
The delegation visited Dr. Muthamilarasan’s millet lab, where they were impressed by ongoing research on foxtail millet and kodo millet. They noted the research’s historical foundation in Tamil literature, highlighting millets’ prominence. The delegation observed research into genetic determinants impacting millets’ climate resilience and nutritional potential through omics approaches.
Subsequently, the delegation toured the university’s facilities and interacted with students engaged in millet research. They recognized the potential for student exchanges to enhance science communication and community engagement across India and Africa, particularly in millet farming contexts.
The visit proved enriching for both universities, paving the way for a robust partnership aimed at collaborative research, enhanced millet cultivation, and improved livelihoods. It strengthened resilience to climate change in India and South Africa.
