On August 29, 2023, HAPRI organized a field visit to explore a model mango cultivation site in Cao Lanh district and city, located in Dong Thap province. Participants included members of the project "Developing Core Skills for Agricultural Labor in the Context of Digital Transformation in Vietnam."
Among whom were MSc. Vu Ngoc Tan, Dr. Duong Nam Ha, Professor Lawrence Bonney, and representatives from the Quality Management Department and Dong Thap Plant Protection Department. Accompanied by esteemed mango farmers Mr. Tran Van Ho and Mr. Nguyen Van Mach, the group toured mango gardens to observe the application of scientific and technical advancements. At midday, they shared a convivial lunch at Mr. Nguyen Van Mach's residence, gaining insight into his dedication to enhancing the local mango industry through the integration of science and technology into production and business practices.
Subsequently, on August 31, 2023, a seminar convened at the Vietnam National University of Agriculture (VNUA) to present findings from the project "Assessment of Current Capacity and Core Skills of Mango Farmers in the Context of Digital Transformation in Vietnam." Distinguished attendees included leaders from the Ministry of Agriculture & Rural Development's Plant Protection Department, executives from Doveco company, representatives from the Farmers’ Association of Son La province, VNUA faculty members, and other stakeholders invested in the mango value chain.
During the seminar, MSc. Vu Ngoc Tan, representing HAPRI, outlined initial findings regarding factors influencing the perceptions, capacities, and core skills of mango farmers in Son La and Dong Thap provinces.
Professor Lawrence Bonney, a project advisor renowned for his expertise in value chain innovation, presented insights on the future trajectory of Vietnam's mango value chain. With a wealth of experience in international research projects focusing on development in Vietnam's Northwest and Highlands regions, as well as advisory roles in agricultural initiatives supported by the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR), Professor Bonney's contribution was highly valued.
A notable mention was made of a publication co-authored by Professor Bonney, utilized in training initiatives related to agricultural value chain development, particularly in projects funded by ACIAR. This included the HAPRI-led project addressing Food Loss in the Catfish (Pangasius) Value Chain of the Mekong River Basin. In recognition of his contributions, Professor Bonney graciously gifted five signed copies of his book, "A Guide to Value-Chain Analysis and Development for Overseas Development Assistance Projects," to HAPRI. MSc. Vu Ngoc Tan extended a warm invitation on behalf of the institute for Professor Bonney to visit the HAPRI office at his earliest convenience.