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Published on
13.11.25
The International Association of Research Scholars and Fellows (IARSAF) held its 28th annual symposium at the IITA–CGIAR headquarters in Ibadan from 28 to 31 October. The four-day event explored how science and systems thinking can serve as powerful levers for building climate resilience and transforming nutrition across Africa’s food systems.
Through engaging discussions and mentorship sessions, participants were challenged to rethink their approach to research and impact. IITA’s Deputy Director General for Research for Development, Dr Bernard Vanlauwe, shared valuable lessons from his research journey, urging young scientists to pursue excellence through consistent publishing, mentorship, and collaboration. “If you help yourself, people will be ready to help you,” he advised.
Representing the IITA Deputy Director General for Partnerships for Delivery, Dr Chrysantus Akem, Coordinator of the TAAT Program Management Unit, emphasized that research must reach those who need it most. “Research is useless if people don’t get to read it,” he said, highlighting the importance of translating scientific outputs into real-world agricultural impact.
Speaking at the symposium, Zaina Sore, Head of Capacity Development, introduced participants to systems thinking a holistic approach that looks beyond symptoms to uncover root causes and interconnections. She urged young scientists to think critically and creatively about Africa’s agricultural challenges, noting that lasting solutions require a deep understanding of complex systems. Adding that understanding interconnected issues is important to creating sustainable and lasting solutions.