Presentation: The University of Southern Mindanao (USM) is a higher education institution renowned for its dedication to agricultural education and research. USM has a substantial portion of land for hands-on agricultural projects and experimental farms. The university is committed to research and development (R&D), focusing on advancing sustainable agricultural practices that are crucial for local and global food security. USM's research, development and extension initiatives encompass a range of fields, including crop improvement, soil health, and sustainable farming techniques focused on corn, legumes, vegetables, root crops, fruits, and plantation crops. The institution collaborates with various national and international organizations to drive innovation in agriculture and science. Through its research, the university aims to address pressing issues such as climate change, resource management, environmental protection, and rural development. Additionally, USM serves as a hub for community engagement, offering training and support to local farmers and agricultural stakeholders. By blending academic excellence with practical application, USM plays a significant role in shaping the future of agriculture in the region and beyond.
Highlights of USM:
- USM is the Niche Center in the Region (NICER) for Cacao R&D
- USM lead the Futures Thinking Program in the region for food security, systems, innovations and sustainability
- The Research and Development Center of USM is one of the few public crop breeding institutions in the Philippines
- USM has the Organic Agriculture Center as training venue for organic agriculture practitioners and advocates
