Renewing USAID Investment in Global Long-Term Training and Capacity Building in Agriculture and Rural Development

摘要

During the 1990s, USAID virtually withdrew its support to developing countries for long-term graduate student training in the U.S., thus depriving many students of access to one of the best systems of higher education in the world. Historically, USAID has been a strong supporter of long-term training and of strengthening agricultural institutions in developing countries. In 1990, USAID funded a total of 9,128 students from developing countries in all disciplines$ by 2000 the number had dropped to 1,212. The decline is also dramatic in the disciplines of agriculture and rural developmentfrom 310 students in 1990 to 82 students in 2000. The Board for International Food and Agricultural Development (BIFAD) is deeply concerned about the decline of graduate long-term training (LTT) in USAIDs portfolio and its impact on economic development in the poorest nations of the world. This document presents the rationale and a specific proposal for a 'Second Generation' training and capacity-building program that generates more advanced degree holders in agriculture and agribusiness and strengthens the capacity of developing countries' own public and private institutions to train students and carry out research. USAID goals for LTT and capacity building also represent an opportunity to strengthen ties between U.S. universities and those in developing countries, without which there is less chance of achieving these goals.