Malkerns- Efforts to strengthen agricultural innovation and food security in Eswatini received a major
boost this week after National Taiwan University (NTU) donated advanced biotechnology laboratory
equipment to the University of Eswatini (UNESWA).
The donation was unveiled during the official opening of the TAVI Genetic Diversity, Crop Improvement
and Food Security Workshop at Malkerns Research Station on Monday, where students, researchers and
agricultural professionals are undergoing intensive training in modern crop improvement technologies.
The two-week programme forms part of the Taiwan–Africa Vegetable Initiative (TAVI), a partnership
that is expanding its focus from school-based agricultural projects to strengthening scientific research
and innovation across the agricultural sector.
Speaking during the event, TAVI Project Manager Dr Sophia Chan said the workshop was designed to
equip participants with practical skills in plant breeding, DNA analysis, seed improvement and
agricultural biotechnology while building long-term research capacity.
“Sustainable agricultural development depends on knowledgeable farmers, skilled professionals and
strong institutions. This workshop is helping build that capacity,” she said.
A key highlight of the programme was the donation of laboratory equipment, teaching materials and
research resources to UNESWA’s Faculty of Agriculture at the Luyengo Campus. The equipment will
support research in genetics, molecular biology, seed systems and crop improvement.
NTU Associate Vice President for International Affairs Kuo Hsin Yang said the investment would enhance
students’ ability to apply scientific methods that are becoming increasingly important in modern
agriculture.
“This equipment will improve students’ practical skills and support research that can contribute to the
transformation of agriculture in Eswatini,” he said.
The initiative aligns with Eswatini’s drive to modernise agriculture and strengthen food production
through science and technology.
Representing the Ministry of Agriculture, Under Secretary for Technical Services Buhle Vincent Dlamini
said the programme supports Government’s 2023–2028 agricultural transformation agenda, which
places greater emphasis on innovation, commercial seed development and productivity enhancement.
“The focus is now shifting towards commercialising improved seeds and crop development. This
knowledge will benefit the entire agricultural sector through improved food security, innovation and job
creation,” Dlamini said.
He added that opportunities for students to pursue postgraduate studies at NTU would help develop a
new generation of agricultural scientists capable of driving research-led growth in the sector.
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