FAO and IAV Hassan II Join Forces to Strengthen Desert Locust Control through Cutting-Edge Acridology Master’s Program

In a ceremony held at the Institut Agronomique et Vétérinaire Hassan II (IAV) in Agadir (Morocco), the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and IAV Hassan II have sealed a partnership by signing an agreement to establish a master’s program in Acridology. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in the ongoing Desert Locust sustainable preventive control strategy in the Western and Central regions.

The newly launched master’s program in Acridology is dedicated to equipping locust control specialists from member countries of the Commissions for Controlling the Desert Locust in the Western Region (CLCPRO) and Central Region (CRC) with state-of-the-art knowledge and skills. The carefully crafted curriculum focuses on crucial aspects, including advanced bio-ecology, cutting-edge surveillance techniques utilizing drones, eco-friendly spraying methods featuring biopesticides, comprehensive health, and environmental monitoring, as well as innovative control strategies.

Scheduled to start in the coming months, this pioneering initiative will provide extensive training to 48 seasoned professionals hailing from 26 countries over a span of four years. By empowering these experts, the program will play a pivotal role in consolidating the accomplishments of both commissions through the implementation of sustainable preventive measures against the menacing desert locusts.

Through the acquisition of cutting-edge knowledge and skills, this Acridology master’s program holds the promise of fortifying locust control structures and contributing to global efforts aimed at safeguarding agricultural livelihoods and achieving food security for all.

With the joint dedication of FAO and IAV Hassan II, this collaborative endeavor is set to enhance locust control practices and bring us closer to a world where the threat of Desert Locusts is effectively managed, ensuring a sustainable future for agricultural communities in both regions.

FAO expresses its deepest gratitude to the government of Morocco, IAV Hassan II, and all financial partners involved, with a special acknowledgment of the unwavering support provided by the French Development Agency (AFD). Their commitment has been instrumental in transforming this ambitious project into a reality.