It is important for Tropenbos Suriname (TBS) and the Center for Agricultural Research in Suriname (CELOS) to work together to manage the forest better and sustainably. The preservation of biodiversity is an important starting point. The human factor is also central. That is why the organizations have extended their cooperation by signing an agreement. This collaboration will benefit both parties and strengthen each other.
TBS director Rudi van Kanten and CELOS director Soedeshchand Jairam signed the agreement on behalf of their organizations on Wednesday 4th december 2024 . Both organizations have expertise in agroforestry and are working on projects in the interior of Suriname. They will exchange knowledge and experiences, which will be beneficial for the country.
“Guaranteeing the food supply for our country is also important,” TBS director Van Kanten emphasized. “To tackle the effects of climate change, new innovative techniques are needed for agriculture. Together, the organizations can use these techniques more efficiently and effectively.” The increase in the demand for food requires the use of new techniques, says Jairam. “On the other hand, natural resources are decreasing due to, among other things, water pollution, for example in the interior, and due to the increase in temperature, which leads to longer periods of drought.”
The parties will collaborate in the field of sustainable development in forest-dependent communities. This includes both timber and non-timber forest products. In addition, they will collaborate in supporting thesis and dissertation work of bachelor, master and PhD students. Both organizations will jointly seek funding for projects of mutual interest. Programs or activities that fall within the terms of this agreement will also be recorded in writing. Any other topic of mutual interest that will yield benefits to both parties will be discussed. However, each institution is fully financially responsible for the activities carried out under its leadership or by its staff, unless otherwise agreed in specific project proposals.
The objective of Tropenbos Suriname is to promote the sustainable use of tropical forests and trees for healthy ecosystems, including biodiversity and human well-being. Tropenbos Suriname strives to ensure that tropical forests and trees are sustainably used and managed by strong institutions and individuals at all levels. The objective of CELOS is to be a leading scientific institute that provides multidisciplinary research, education and services in the agricultural and forestry sector, to promote the development of Suriname.
