WFP and Armenian National Agrarian University sign agreement to enhance agricultural development and community well-being
The signing ceremony, held at the university on 20th June 2024, marks the beginning of a series of joint projects designed to improve food security, promote smart agricultural practices, address environmental issues within communities, mitigate the effects of climate change, and foster sustainable development in the agricultural sector.
“We're excited about the potential of our partnership with ANAU to enhance agricultural innovation and improve food security in Armenia. We aim to bring new technologies and sustainable practices to students through a learning platform, helping them develop the necessary skill sets and strengthen resilience in Armenian communities,” says Nanna Skau, WFP Country Director in Armenia.
WFP and the Agrarian University have a proven track record of successful collaboration, particularly in Tavush and Syunik regions. In 2020, Tavush was selected as one of the poorest regions in the country, and later, Syunik was chosen due to its vulnerability and recent conflict-related consequences.
In the Tavush region, ANAU supported WFP with consulting and training in the wholegrain value chain project. Meanwhile, in Sisian, WFP's assistance enabled the ANAU's Sisian branch to effectively implement projects to enhance education quality and applied research, introduce innovative practices in agriculture and agribusiness, and provide scientific and advisory services to small farms.
Over 600 people benefited from this partnership through agricultural and educational initiatives. These efforts improved agricultural practices and promoted food security and community resilience across the country. This collaboration seeks to engage youth in agriculture and help them develop essential skill sets for careers in the agricultural sector.
“Thanks to WFP for recognizing the importance of the agriculture sector and its impact on the country's development, particularly in remote communities, and for standing steadfastly alongside the Agrarian University. Today's MoU signing reaffirms our commitment to being reliable partners, fostering mutual trust, and collaborating to solve challenges together,” says the ANAU director, Mr. Zakoyan.
Building on this strong partnership, which has also involved the Ministry of Economy, the new agreement will specifically focus on conducting research to ensure food security, exploring climate-smart solutions for socio-economic and agricultural challenges in Armenian communities, providing financial support for agricultural entrepreneurship among socially vulnerable individuals, and promoting the adoption of modern technologies in agricultural production and processing.
Currently, 30% of Armenians experience food insecurity, and 25% live in poverty. Through its Food Security and Vulnerability Assessment, WFP lays the foundation for informed decision-making and effective response planning. This effort targets all regions, especially those with high refugee populations, alongside emergency food aid, cash transfers, and resilience-building initiatives, reinforcing WFP's commitment to enhance food security nationwide.
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The United Nations World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian organization saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters and the impact of climate change.