UCAM and Fundación Ingenio have signed an agreement to set up the Chair of Food Sovereignty and Rural Conservation, aimed at strengthening the strategic role of the agri-food sector through the generation of knowledge, training of talent and technology transfer. With this project, FI and UCAM reaffirm their commitment to the sustainable development of the rural environment, committing to a more modern, competitive and socially committed agri-food model.

The agreement was signed by María Dolores García, UCAM president, and Adolfo García Albaladejo, president of the Ingenio Foundation, who agreed on the need to connect academia with the reality of the agricultural sector. ‘This chair is committed to three key elements for the rural world, which are innovation, commitment and action,’ said García Albaladejo.

Lines of work

The Chair of Food Sovereignty and Rural Conservation contemplates actions in collaboration with teachers, researchers and professionals in the sector, including technical and applied training sessions, such as participation in the 11th UCAM International Doctorate Conference, seminars, meetings and outreach activities as well as collaborative research projects. It will also develop internship programmes in companies in the sector, support for doctoral and postgraduate students, and knowledge and technology transfer initiatives.

Thus, the new Chair will have an ongoing programme focused on key issues such as environmental sustainability, agriculture 5.0, food safety, responsible consumption, generational change and the promotion of women in rural areas. It will also promote the approach of children and young people to the agricultural environment, helping generate awareness and new vocations.