#RR2P2024: Empowering the Next Generation of Rice Scientists for Greater Impact

Eighteen agriculture students and researchers from diverse backgrounds in Thailand, Vietnam, Japan, the United States, Ghana, Nigeria, and Bangladesh recently gathered at the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) Headquarters in the Philippines. They came together to participate in one of IRRI Education’s flagship courses, Rice Research to Production (RR2P).

The RR2P course is an immersive three-week training program that covers the basics of rice production, the changes and challenges in the rice industry from production to market, the different research considerations around the rice-based agri-food systems, advancements in rice breeding, the socio-economic and environmental aspects of rice production, latest innovations in rice science, and building effective collaborations within the international research community.

The course officially started on 27 May. Present during the opening program was IRRI’s Deputy Director General for Strategy, Engagement, and Impact, Joanna Kane-Potaka, who delivered a message emphasizing the importance of IRRI’s work, especially in the current climate where rice production must consider not only its profitability but also its environmental impact and value to consumers.

She briefly introduced some of the major projects IRRI is focusing on, particularly in the field of nutrition. After releasing low and ultra-low glycemic index (GI) rice, IRRI is now working on enhancing these rice varieties to also be high in protein. Additionally, IRRI has successfully incorporated high-yield and high-zinc traits into all its breeding lines.

Dr. Potaka concluded her message by reiterating the significant impact rice can have on the planet and its people. She expressed her excitement for participants to gain a deeper understanding of this as they progress through the course.

Building on Dr. Potaka’s message, Dr. Amelia Henry, IRRI’s Senior Scientist II in Stress Physiology and the course’s main coordinator, gave an overview of the course. She emphasized its primary objective: showcasing the significant impact of rice science. She hoped that through the RR2P course, participants would see the connection between all of IRRI’s work, from upstream research to the adoption of technologies, all aimed at making a positive impact. Another important aspect that the course intends to highlight is the importance of teamwork. Dr. Henry shared how all IRRI scientists from different backgrounds and disciplines, from breeding all the way to economics, are working together to create an impact. In a similar manner, she hopes that the participants throughout this course will also demonstrate teamwork.

Dr. Henry outlined the lectures and activities that the participants will be engaging in for the next three weeks. Apart from lectures and discussions with IRRI experts, they will also visit IRRI fields and laboratories and conduct practical activities and exercises. Additionally, they will have the opportunity to visit several agricultural institutions and companies to learn how some challenges to global food resources are addressed by different agencies and institutions based in the Philippines.

The participants also had the opportunity to meet Dr. Ajay Kohli, Deputy Director General for Research Delivery and Innovations, who previously served as IRRI’s Interim Director General. After welcoming the participants, he provided insights into the institution’s history and its current research initiatives, highlighting its commitment to agricultural development. He concluded with remarks on upcoming changes and anticipated collaborations under the new Director General, Dr. Yvonne Pinto.

Partnership for Impact

Partnerships are essential in magnifying the impact of scientific research and education. One notable collaboration is between IRRI and Purdue University. In 2021, Purdue received a grant from the National Science Foundation for the Plant Science for Global Food Security (PSGFS) Program. Since then, this collaboration has allowed eight undergraduate students from Purdue and its partner universities – North Carolina A & T University, Florida A &M University, University of Illinois, Tuskegee University, and University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa – to participate in the RR2P course at IRRI. These students gain hands-on experience and insight into cutting-edge rice research, learning directly from IRRI’s leading scientists. This immersive experience not only enhances their academic and professional development but also inspires them to contribute to the global mission of improving rice production and sustainability.

Through such partnerships, IRRI extends its reach and influence, creating a network of knowledgeable and passionate individuals dedicated to making a positive impact on the world’s rice industry.

Dr. Gary Burniske, Managing Director of the Center for Global Food Security at Purdue University was also present during the opening program.

About the RR2P Course

RR2P was conceptualized through the collaborative efforts of IRRI and Cornell University scientists, with the aim to open young scientists to the challenges and opportunities of rice science to meet the global challenges of food security and to improve the livelihoods of resource-poor rice producers.

Since its first implementation in 2007, the RR2P program has empowered over 300 individuals with the essential skills, knowledge, and networks needed to address the pressing challenges confronting the global rice industry.

Read more about the course and its impact here.

About IRRI Education

IRRI Education is the educational and capacity-building arm of IRRI. Since 1962, IRRI Education has been imparting capacity development programs in various rice science and technology disciplines and offering diverse and global learning experiences for students, early career researchers, scientists, and other professionals. It operates with five service portfolios – Short and Long Courses, Scholars and Youth Engagement, Online Learning and Product Development, Knowledge Sharing, and Advisory around Capacity Development. These pillars underpin IRRI Education’s commitment to producing holistic and integrated learning solutions, addressing learning gaps and expectations with sound educational innovations.

Visit education.irri.org to learn more