The World Vegetable Center Board of Directors held its 56th meeting from 11-20 November 2019 at WorldVeg headquarters in Taiwan. The board expressed its profound gratitude to the Government of Taiwan for its tremendous support to WorldVeg in general and for the RIM project at WorldVeg Headquarters in Shanhua, Taiwan in particular. Board members endorsed a new research mobilization strategy consisting of three interactive tracks: (i) diversifying and expanding Center income; (ii) positioning WorldVeg as an ‘Open Science Center’; and (iii) establishing a strategic alliance with ‘One CGIAR’.
The board congratulated WorldVeg staff with results obtained in 2019 and for managing expenditures within the approved budget as of August. The operational plan and budget for 2020 was approved. The board expressed satisfaction on the measures taken on cost allocation and recovery. Members took note of the implementation of the internal audit recommendations and approved audit plans for 2020, as well as 2019 risk management activities and safeguarding measures. The Center’s overall efforts were acknowledged and appreciated.
Two new members were appointed to the board: Dr. A.K. Singh (India), Deputy Director General, Horticultural Science Division, Indian Council of Agricultural Research, and Dr. Gordon Rogers (Australia), CEO of Applied Horticultural Research.
Board member Cathy Reade (Australia) completed her term; Cathy was thanked for her gracious support and thoughtful advice over her two full terms (six years) of service.
New Board Members
Dr. Gordon Rogers (Australia), CEO of Applied Horticultural Research, has managed or led more than 85 research projects over the last 20 years with a total value of $35 million, many of which have been industry-funded research projects. Dr. Rogers also has led major international projects for the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) in the Philippines, Vietnam, Myanmar and Africa.
Dr. A.K. Singh (India) is Deputy Director General, Horticultural Science Division, Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). He leads country-wide research, education, and extension initiatives for horticultural crops. His work also encompasses logistics and infrastructure for holistic horticultural development. Dr. Singh has organized five major horticultural congresses to foster collaboration among research institutions and the private sector.
Source: World Vegetable Center