The UTM Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Forestry, and Environmental Sciences (FȘASM) had the honor of welcoming Professor Richard O. OMOTOYE, coordinator of the “Agribusiness & Economics” program at the College of Agriculture, Virginia State University (VSU), USA.
The visit marked an important occasion for academic exchange and exploration of new opportunities for bilateral collaboration in the agricultural field.
Prof. Omotoye delivered two presentations, providing a comparative framework and outlining the strategies and objectives of VSU and UTM in agriculture: “Drivers of agriculture programming at VSU and TUM: Vision, Mission, Goals & Objectives” and “Agriculture Programming Framework at VSU Benchmarked with TUM.”
The lecture on “Career and Partnership Opportunities for the Moldovan Youth in Agriculture” inspired and motivated young people to explore career paths in agriculture and leverage the potential of international collaborations.
Discussions continued in working groups, centering on identifying opportunities for bilateral collaboration between Virginia State University and the Technical University of Moldova. Special emphasis was placed on Professor Omotoye’s expertise in enhancing the curriculum of the “Agribusiness and Rural Development” program at FȘASM.
During the visit, the guest explored the faculty’s laboratories and experimental teaching sectors, gaining valuable insights into the hands-on educational process and research activities led by both faculty members and students. This experience underscored UTM’s commitment to fostering an innovative and practical learning environment.
To showcase the latest fruit production technologies adopted by Moldovan farmers, the dean of the faculty, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sergiu POPA, and the head of the Department of Horticulture and Forestry, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ion RÎBINŢEV, arranged visits to several local entrepreneurs. These meetings offered a firsthand look at modern agricultural practices in Moldova, highlighting potential avenues for collaboration.
This visit plays a crucial role in strengthening the institutional bonds between the two universities, opening new horizons and development prospects. Through active involvement in collaborative research and learning initiatives, both professors and students are cultivating an environment that nurtures innovation and academic advancement in agriculture. This milestone signifies a major step towards deepening international partnerships and advancing academic excellence in agricultural studies, thereby making a positive impact on both the academic community and the evolution of the agricultural sector in the Republic of Moldova.
