Does IITA Ibadan accept Corps members? If you’re a prospective corps member or Corper aspiring to serve in IITA and have little or no idea if they accept Corps members, this article is for you. Read to the end. Before we delve into that, let’s explore what this organization is all about, including its history, functions, address, and other vital information you need to know.
About International Institute of Tropical Agriculture
The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) is a nonprofit organization committed to collaborating with partners to improve crop quality and productivity. Its mission extends to reducing risks for both producers and consumers while generating wealth from agriculture, with the overarching goals of alleviating hunger, malnutrition, and poverty. Established in 1967, IITA is headquartered in Ibadan, Nigeria, and operates various research stations across Africa. The organization’s research-for-development (R4D) initiatives specifically target the developmental needs of tropical countries.
Governed by a Board of Trustees, IITA receives support from multiple countries and is affiliated with the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR). The institute’s holistic approach encompasses a wide range of activities aimed at fostering sustainable agricultural practices and contributing to the overall well-being of communities in tropical regions. Through its comprehensive efforts, IITA plays a pivotal role in advancing agricultural research and development to address the challenges faced by tropical nations.
History
IITA traces its roots back to 1967 when it was established in Ibadan, Nigeria, as a collaborative effort between the Ford and Rockefeller Foundations. The founding decree, decree 32 of 1967, marked the institute’s inception, driven by the shared vision to create a center dedicated to enhancing the quality of tropical foods. Operating initially on a 1000-hectare land, IITA set out with ambitious goals, including the development of more productive farming systems, the breeding of high-yielding crop varieties resistant to diseases and pests, and the reinforcement of agricultural research in humid and tropical regions.
During its early years, IITA focused on specific programs, such as cereal improvement, grain and legumes improvement, farming systems, and root and tuber improvement. Notably, the grain and legume improvement program encompassed crops like soybean and cowpea, while the tuber program included yam and cassava. In 1971, IITA became a member of the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR), signifying its commitment to global collaboration in agricultural research. Over time, the institute expanded its scope to include tree products like plantains and bananas, further broadening its impact on agricultural development.
Address
IITA Headquarters is located at PMB 5320, Oyo Road, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria.
Does IITA Ibadan Accept Corpers?
IITA Ibadan does accept Corpers. If you’re a Corper aspiring to serve there, the good news is that they accept Corps members. The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) is considered one of the best places of primary assignment (PPA) for Corpers. In addition to the state or federal government allowance, IITA provides its Corpers with a monthly allowance. If you’re interested in serving at IITA Ibadan, you can initiate the process by making the necessary connections, obtaining a request letter from them, and applying.