Project Overview
HARVEST is a pioneering initiative dedicated to transforming higher education in Southeast Asia (SEA) by addressing the urgent challenges of sustainable agriculture, food systems, and climate resilience.
Through collaboration with universities, researchers, industry leaders, and local communities in Indonesia, Cambodia, and Vietnam, HARVEST fosters innovation, knowledge sharing, and skill development to ensure a sustainable future.
At the heart of HARVEST lies a commitment to empowering students, academics, and communities by integrating forward-thinking teaching methods, interdisciplinary micro-courses, and real-world problem-solving approaches.
Together, we aim to:
- Bridge Knowledge Gaps: Align curricula with labour market needs and sustainable practices.
- Build Capacity: Upskill and reskill educators and researchers with innovative pedagogies.
- Foster Innovation: Develop student-driven hubs and projects addressing global challenges.
- Engage Communities: Collaborate with local stakeholders to create climate-resilient solutions.
Geographical Context
A Region in Transition:
Addressing Global and Local Challenges
The global food and nutrition crisis has reached unprecedented levels, driven by protracted conflicts, economic instability, and climate change. Extreme weather events, rising temperatures, and environmental degradation continue to threaten food production and security, disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations.
In Southeast Asia, despite progress in food security, significant disparities persist across Indonesia, Cambodia, and Vietnam, where rural communities remain highly susceptible to food insecurity and climate-induced disruptions. As a key economic sector in the region, agriculture has to transition to sustainable practices to mitigate climate risks and ensure long-term food security.
Indonesia
In Indonesia, where agriculture accounts for over 12% of GDP and 42.7% of the population lives in rural areas, food insecurity remains a challenge despite government initiatives. Regions like Lampung Province, a major agricultural hub, face productivity constraints due to climate variability, pest outbreaks, and limited access to sustainable farming inputs. Additionally, rising food prices and regional disparities contribute to persistent undernourishment and high stunting rates.
Vietnam
In Vietnam, agriculture employs a significant rural population, yet rapid urbanisation, industrialisation, and unsustainable resource exploitation threaten long-term food security. The Mekong Delta, a critical food-producing region, is highly vulnerable to climate change, with rising sea levels, increasing droughts, and extreme weather events expected to disrupt food production, degrade natural resources, and impact rural livelihoods. Without adaptation measures, these challenges will further threaten food security and economic stability.
Cambodia
In Cambodia, where agriculture contributes 22.2% of GDP and 75.3% of the population resides in rural areas, food insecurity remains a concerning issue. Undernutrition affects 22% of children under five, with widespread micronutrient deficiencies, while climate-related disasters such as monsoon flooding and droughts exacerbate vulnerabilities. Limited access to education and infrastructure further restricts rural communities from adopting sustainable farming practices, underscoring the need for capacity-building and innovation in the sector.
In response, HARVEST is committed to driving a sustainable transformation in SEA’s agricultural and food systems. By empowering Universities as catalysts of change, HARVEST integrates innovative, challenge-based learning approaches, such as micro-courses and micro-credentials, to equip students with essential green and transversal skills. Through capacity-building programmes, student innovation hubs, and industry collaboration, the project fosters a new generation of professionals ready to lead the transition toward sustainable food systems.
Partners
University of Seville – Spain
The University of Seville brings longstanding expertise in sustainable food systems, agricultural law, and public policy. With experience in capacity-building and micro-credentials, it supports HARVEST’s efforts in education, policymaking, and sustainability initiatives.
University of Agriculture in Krakow – Poland
The University of Agriculture in Krakow delivers significant contributions to climate change, food economy, and smart agriculture through initiatives like Innovation Incubator 2.0 and 4.0. Its research in sustainable farming, environmental protection, and modern technologies strengthens HARVEST’s innovation-driven approach.
Universitas Kristen Indonesia – Indonesia
The Christian University of Indonesia integrates biodiversity conservation, climate policies, and sustainable development into its curricula. Through HARVEST, it aims to enhance research, update legal frameworks, and expand sustainability-focused education.
University of Lampung – Indonesia
Located in Lampung Province, the University of Lampung focuses on climate change, food security governance, and sustainable development. It brings expertise in policy intervention, interdisciplinary research, and community engagement, aligning perfectly with HARVEST’s mission.
Dalat University – Vietnam
Dalat University puts special emphasis on sustainability education, experiential learning, and international accreditation. (AUN-QA, CDIO). Through HARVEST, it aims to expand practical training in sustainable agriculture and strengthen faculty expertise.
Vietnam National University of Forestry – Vietnam
A leader in forestry, rural development, and environmental management, the National University of Forestry contributes to Vietnam’s innovation agenda. HARVEST supports its efforts to modernise curricula, enhance interdisciplinary research, and promote sustainable land use.
Svay Rieng University – Cambodia
As the only public university in Svay Rieng, it plays a key role in advancing agricultural education, climate-resilient farming, and agri-business innovation. Through HARVEST, its efforts in research, expert training, and community-based sustainability projects are further expanded.
Prek Leap National Institute of Agriculture – Cambodia
Prek Leap National Institute of Agriculture specialises in sustainable agriculture, green technologies, and community development. HARVEST supports its efforts to enhance Research and Development, integrate innovative pedagogies, and provide hands-on training for students and farmers.
Incoma – Spain
INCOMA is a training and research centre with expertise in capacity-building, skill development, and social inclusion. With nearly 20 years of experience in international cooperation, it plays a key role in quality assurance, dissemination, and sustainability planning within HARVEST.