On Tuesday 20th June 2023, a delegation consisting of five faculty members from Virginia Tech visited the College of Economics and Business Studies (COEBS) at the Sokoine University of Agriculture.
The Principal of COEBS extended a warm welcome to the delegation, setting the stage for an engaging and productive interactive session with the academic staff members from both institutions. The interactive session targeted topics on; fostering sustainability, translate research for community empowerment, enhance global understanding among American students, and forge collaborative partnerships.
Sustainability – Exploring Multifaceted Dimensions: The core part of the discussion session revolved around sustainability, encompassing environmental, cultural, and educational aspects. Participants delved into the significance of incorporating sustainability in academic curricula and explored the current state of sustainability in both Tanzania and the United States. The multifaceted nature of sustainability was emphasized, highlighting its diverse manifestations and the importance of contextual understanding.
Translating Research for Community Impact: The delegation from Virginia Tech shared their experiences in translating research to address pressing issues in food systems, value chains, and supply chains. Successful case studies from the United States were presented, showcasing how research outcomes have been effectively applied to benefit local communities. The discussion highlighted two key channels for research translation: extension services and the outreach department at Virginia Tech. These avenues played instrumental roles in connecting academia with the private sector, enabling the dissemination of research-based solutions to communities in need. 
Fostering Global Understanding – Bridging the Knowledge Gap: An important aspect of the session focused on enhancing American students’ awareness and knowledge about countries in the global south, with a particular emphasis on Tanzania. Participants engaged in a dialogue on innovative approaches to expose students at secondary and tertiary education levels to diverse cultures, economies, and societal contexts outside their immediate environments. The exchange aimed to nurture global perspectives, cultural sensitivity, and a sense of interconnectedness among future leaders and professionals.
Building Partnerships and Collaborations for Sustainable Development: Recognizing the mutual benefits of collaboration, the discussion centered on how to forge robust partnerships between Virginia Tech and COEBS. Participants explored avenues for joint research projects, knowledge sharing initiatives, faculty and student exchange programs, and capacity-building efforts. The emphasis was on aligning research agendas, leveraging expertise, and creating sustainable pathways for long-term collaboration. The session underscored the importance of collective action to address complex challenges and achieve sustainable development goals.
This is the second visit of the Virginia Tech delegation to the College of Economics and Business Studies at the Sokoine University of Agriculture in about two weeks, and it marks a significant continuation of the engagement and collaborative efforts between the two institutions. Through in-depth discussions on sustainability, research translation, global understanding, and partnerships, both institutions are strengthening their commitment to addressing pressing societal issues.
