CIRAD and the National University of Laos sign Memorandum of Understanding for Scientific Cooperation

30/11/2023
On November 23, 2023, the National University of Laos (NUoL) and CIRAD signed a Memorandum of Understanding for Scientific Cooperation, uniting their strengths in a partnership aimed at advancing agricultural development and joint research. Led by NUoL President Assoc. Prof. Oudom Phonekhamphen and CIRAD's Dr. Francois Roger, this collaboration sets a new benchmark for aligning academic and practical solutions to global challenges.
CIRAD Regional Director for Continental Southeast Asia (CIRAD DRASEC), Dr. Francois Roger and President of the National University of Laos, Assoc. Prof. Oudom Phonekhamphen, along with members from both institutions. © NUoL, 2023

CIRAD Regional Director for Continental Southeast Asia (CIRAD DRASEC), Dr. Francois Roger and President of the National University of Laos, Assoc. Prof. Oudom Phonekhamphen, along with members from both institutions. © NUoL, 2023

On 23 November 2023, the National University of Laos (NUoL) and CIRAD met for the signing ceremony of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for scientific cooperation. In the presence of dignitaries, esteemed guests, and representatives from both institutions, the President of NUoL, Assoc. Prof. Oudom Phonekhamphen, and CIRAD Regional Director for Continental Southeast Asia (CIRAD DRASEC), Dr. Francois Roger, solidified a framework of partnership that sets the stage for a collaborative future in agricultural development, education, and research.

Mission and vision of the MoU

The MoU establishes a comprehensive cooperation framework between NUoL and CIRAD, with a particular focus on joint research endeavors, the exchange of personnel, training and teaching programs, and sharing scientific resources.

This framework will help fulfill CIRAD's mission of generating new knowledge in collaboration with southern countries and promoting agricultural development, which works in synergy with NuOL's role of aligning education and research with Laos' national priorities, especially in agronomy and socio-economic sciences. 

This signature signifies their shared vision to enhance the academic landscape and contribute to the prosperity of both Laos and the global community. It opens doors to numerous opportunities for joint research projects, faculty and student exchanges, and knowledge sharing.

CIRAD Dr. Francois Roger and NUoL’s President solidified the two institutions' friendship in the presence of their esteemed colleagues and representatives. © Chau Tran Thi, 2023

CIRAD Dr. Francois Roger and NUoL’s President, assoc. prof. Oudom Phonekhamphen, solidified the two institutions' friendship in the presence of their esteemed colleagues and representatives. © Chau Tran Thi, 2023

Together, NUoL and CIRAD will work hand in hand to bridge the gap between academia and practical solutions, fostering an environment where ideas are transformed into actions that benefit society as a whole. 
Dr. Francois Roger
CIRAD Regional Director for Continental Southeast Asia (CIRAD DRASEC)

Areas of cooperation

NUoL and CIRAD researchers © F. Roger, 2023

NUoL and CIRAD researchers © F. Roger, 2023

Under this agreement, the two institutions will engage in:

  • Joint research projects on sustainable agriculture, food systems transformation, and One Health.
  • Exchange and hosting of scientific and technical staff.
  • Joint organization of seminars, symposia, and conferences.
  • Collaborative responses to national and international calls for tender.

The framework also highlights CIRAD and NuOL's joint prioritization of staff training and development in collaboration. CIRAD will provide training to NUoL's research and technical staff based on the specific needs of their projects, as well as broader skill enhancement. Similarly, NUoL will offer CIRAD-approved researchers, students, and trainees training opportunities. 

The increased presence of CIRAD researchers in Laos, growing from 2 to 8 by the end of 2024, further cements this commitment. Four researchers will work directly with NUoL's Faculty of Agriculture, integrating their expertise with ongoing projects and initiatives.

A Step Towards Sustainable Global Solutions

CIRAD Dr. Francois Roger exchanging commemorative souvenirs with NUoL’s President © Chau Tran Thi, 2023

NUoL has been an integral part of CIRAD's regional platforms in partnership with research and training MALICA/Food Systems (visit website) and GREASE/One Health (visit website) for the past twelve years. A new collaboration is also being developed with the Faculty of Forest Sciences on Aquilaria sp. farming and agarwood production.

Recognizing NUoL as a hub for education, research, and the cultivation of future leaders in Laos, CIRAD aims to bring its expertise in agriculture, food systems, animal health, One Health development, and environmental sciences to bridge the gap between academia and real-world issues through this collaboration. This Framework Agreement represents their commitment to addressing global challenges such as climate change, food security, and sustainable agricultural practices.