Luis Alfredo Londoño Vélez, researcher and former dean of the Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, took office on December 21st as the representative of universities on the Superior Council of the Agricultural Innovation System. This position aims to facilitate the transformation of the agricultural sector, with the goal of making our country a powerhouse in agri-food production.

In September 2023, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, led by Minister Jhenifer Mojica Flórez, announced the process through which various organizations could nominate their representative to the Superior Council of the Agricultural Innovation System. This Council aims to involve the entire population through delegates from community organizations, indigenous peoples, Afro-descendant communities, rural women, universities, and institutions linked to the agricultural sector. This diverse group 'is the national authority that outlines the strategy for agricultural technological development, technology transfer, training, capacity building, and extension, among other mechanisms, using instruments to mitigate risks in agricultural production projects,' as stated on the website of the National Government's Ministry.

Therefore, Professor Luis Alfredo Londoño Vélez was appointed to represent universities within this important advocacy space. As an institution of higher learning, which includes 'Being a university that is supportive and committed to its environment' in its current Institutional Development Plan, we express our pride because many members of the Unicaucano community hold significant roles in the country's development. This is especially noteworthy when addressing topics crucial to the population, such as those related to the agricultural sector.

The professor will serve in this role for the next two years, with the objective of 'Supporting the strategy of articulation with research subsystems, training, promotion of innovation networks for knowledge management, technological development to improve productivity, competitiveness, and sustainability for the benefit of the agricultural sector,' as stated by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development

From the Universidad del Cauca, we wish Professor Luis Alfredo a very successful representation, knowing that his extensive experience as a researcher will enable him to contribute great ideas to this discussion space. Likewise, he will continue enriching the classrooms of our Alma Mater, particularly through social outreach. Congratulations!

For more information:

Faculty of Agricultural Sciences

Email: facagro@unicauca.edu.co