
RISA Program in Collaboration with UK International Development Conducts Training on Rice Milling and Parboiling Technology
The University of Gondar’s RISA (Research and Innovation System in Africa) Program, in Collaboration with UK International Development, conducted a practical training session for farmers on Rice Milling and Parboiling Technology on 29 January 2025. As part of the event, a modern rice milling machine was officially handed over to the participating farmers.
During the event, the president of the University, Asrat Atsedeweyn(PhD), addressed that improving the lifestyle and productivity of farmers is one of the university’s core missions. He highlighted the university’s ongoing collaborations with national and international partners, such as RISA and UK International Development, to enhance the productivity and quality of agricultural products. One of the key initiatives is the introduction of innovative post-harvest mechanisms, including Parboiling Technology and Rice Milling.
The president also urged the participant farmers to improve their livelihoods and the quality of their production using the new technology that the university presented.
The coordinator of RISA at the University of Gondar, Mr. Kefale Eneyew, noted that approximately one hundred farmers are involved in the Rice Post-harvesting project and stated that the project has engaged in different innovative programs aimed at changing in the lives of the community as a whole. Rice Milling technology is expected to add significant value to the previously launched systems.
As Mr Desye Belay, a Researcher at Fogera National Rice Research and Training Center, pointed out that the quality of local rice has been relatively low due to poor harvesting mechanisms. He further demonstrated how to improve the quality of rice using parboiling technology and Rice milling.
The participant farmers claimed that they were using local materials previously for rice milling that reduces the quality and productivity of their rice products. They added that the training will enable them with better application of modern Milling techniques.
“University of Gondar is the university of the people”, said Mr. Alebachew, head, Gondar Zuriya District Agriculture Office. He also added that production alone holds little value unless it is supported by advanced post-production technologies.
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Public Relations Directorate
January 30, 2025