IPB University and the University of Saskatchewan in Canada Launch a Dual PhD Program in Plant Sciences
The Rector, along with a delegation of IPB University leaders, paid a working visit to the University of Saskatchewan (USask) in Canada (9/28–29). This visit strengthened the partnership between the two universities, which was established in 2024, and marked the launch of the Dual PhD Program in Plant Sciences.
During a high level meeting with USask President Dr Vince Bruni-Bossio, both parties signed a Joint Declaration of Intent in the presence of senior leadership from both universities. The signing ceremony was also attended by the Dean of the College of Agriculture and Bioresources at USask, Dr Angela Bedard-Haughn.
The IPB University delegation consisted of Rector Dr Alim Setiawan Slamet; Vice Rector for Research, Innovation, and Agromaritime Development Prof Ernan Rustiadi; Vice Rector for Global Connectivity, Cooperation, and Alumni Affairs Prof Iskandar Z Siregar; and Chairman of the Institute for Agromaritime Development and Innopreneurship Acceleration Dr Handian Purwawangsa.
In his remarks, the Rector outlined three main areas of cooperation. First, establishing the Dual PhD in Plant Sciences program as a flagship partnership that opens opportunities for joint supervision, student mobility, and high quality research for food security and sustainable agriculture.
Second, to strengthen joint research in the fields of plant science, plant breeding, climate resilience, digital agriculture, and artificial intelligence (AI). Third, to expand faculty and student exchanges
Third, expanding faculty and student exchanges, joint publications, and capacity building programs.
“USask and IPB have complementary strengths. By working together, we can produce innovations that benefit farmers and the community,” said Dr Alim. “We are here to listen, learn, and collaborate.”
In addition to meeting with the USask President, the visit included meetings with the Department of Plant Sciences, the USask New Frontiers in Research Fund (NFRF) team led by Dr Michael Nickerson, and a tour of the food laboratory at the Faculty of Engineering and Agriculture with Dr Venkatesh Meda and Dr Nickerson. The delegation also planted a tree together with the USask President as a symbol of friendship and the sustainability of the partnership.
On the second day of the visit, the IPB University delegation visited the Plant Sciences and Phytotron laboratories with Dr Bunyamin Tar’an, then held discussions with the Department of Plant Sciences, led by Dr Chris Willenborg, to explore next steps for research and educational collaboration. (*/Rz) (IAAS/HLF)
