Introduction to ICAB

(Introduction) Welcome to the Capacity Building for the Center for Agriculture and Bioscience of IPB University in Indonesia (2021-2028) project, a collaborative initiative between the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) and IPB University. With a project duration spanning from 2021 to 2028, the overarching objective is to establish a state-of-the-art Research Center for Agriculture and Bioscience at IPB University.

(Background) Indonesia is the second-most biodiverse country in the world and one of the largest producers of tropical fruits, spices, coffee, palm oil, and other agricultural commodities. However, the country’s research capacity for agriculture and bioscience falls behind the economic importance. In particular, Institut Pertanian Bogor (IPB) University in Indonesia is one of the top 5 universities in Indonesia but its global ranking remains in less than 500.

(Goals) This ambitious endeavor encompasses multifaceted goals, including the development of human resources in agriculture, life sciences, and environmental management, ranging from master’s and doctoral programs to the provision of technical assistance. Furthermore, the project aims to bolster the research capacity of IPB University, foster industry-academic cooperation in the burgeoning Green Bio sector, and facilitate the Korea-Indonesia-Timor Leste Triangular Cooperation.

(Beneficiaries and Contributions) The beneficiaries of this initiative extend beyond the academic realm, encompassing professors, researchers, and students at IPB University and the National University of East Timor in Timor Leste. Additionally, the project seeks to impact universities, research institutes, and industries engaged in agriculture, life sciences, and environmental management. With partnerships reaching into various ministries, including those in education, culture, research and technology, agriculture, environment, and forestry, this project is poised to make a substantial contribution to the academic, research, and industrial landscape in the region.