WorldVeg Global R&D Week held in Thailand

More than 80 WorldVeg staff from headquarters and regional offices gathered in Kanchanaburi, Thailand for the annual Global R&D Week. Traditionally, staff members meet yearly at the WorldVeg Headquarters in Taiwan, but due to COVID-19 restrictions, the Global R&D weeks were held online. This year’s event in Thailand allowed staff to reconnect in person and share insights on the Center’s latest projects and initiatives.

The week-long event kicked off with the Kasetsart University (KU)-WorldVeg Scientists Day, with the goal of strengthening collaboration and increasing knowledge exchange between the two organizations. KU hosts the WorldVeg East and Southeast Asia Regional Office.

The following days focused on discussions on genetic resources and biodiversity conservation, vegetable breeding, vegetable production and agronomy, plant health including disease and pest management, vegetable value chains including postharvest, food systems and nutrition, and impact evaluation. Management and staff also touched upon WorldVeg’s new science agenda that is open and inclusive.

The WorldVeg ESEA team also prepared team building and social activities for all participants.

Next year’s Global R&D Week will be held in Taiwan, as part of WorldVeg’s 50th anniversary celebration.