QIU has embarked on an impactful partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture, Climate Change and Environment of the Republic of Seychelles that promises to revamp agriculture and food security in the African island nation.
Both parties signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) yesterday that aims to transform the agricultural landscape of Seychelles through the exchange of expertise, capacity building, and knowledge transfer in modern, climate-smart farming practices. Amidst growing challenges in global food security and climate change, the collaboration is timely and forward-looking.
At the heart of the agreement is a shared vision to tackle the twin challenges of limited arable land and the adverse effects of climate change. Through this partnership, QIU will offer tailored programmes in fields such as biotechnology, sustainable farming, environmental technology, plant tissue culture, and agricultural technology—bridging the gap between current practices and future needs in the island nation.
QIU will provide a comprehensive suite of training initiatives, including workshops, short and bridging courses, and academic degree programmes. These initiatives are designed to equip Seychellois professionals and stakeholders with the tools and expertise needed to boost local food production, reduce dependence on imports, and promote sustainability in agriculture. This will also develop new industries and provide new career opportunities for the people of Seychelles.
The agreement was officially inked by the Republic of Seychelles Minister of Agriculture, Climate Change and Environment, His Excellency Mr Flavien Joubert and Global Integrated Training Associates (GITA) Chief Executive Officer Mr Nicholas Goh at the QI Tower in Petaling Jaya.
On hand to witness the signing were Permanent Secretary of the Republic of Seychelles’ Ministry of Agriculture, Climate Change and Environment, Mr Keven Nancy; Dean of QIU’s Faculty of Integrated Life Sciences, Prof. Dr Vilasini Pillai; QI Group Group Managing Director Mr Kuna Senathirajah, Honorary Consul of Seychelles in Malaysia Mr. Kabilan Muniandy, QIU Vice-Chancellor Prof. Zita Mohd Fahmi, alongside other leaders from Seychelles and QIU.
“This MoA signifies our mutual commitment to education-driven development,” said Nicholas. “By combining our academic resources with Seychelles’ local expertise, we aim to develop impactful, lasting solutions that support both the environment and the economy.”
“Our researchers are committed to finding solutions to the planet’s challenges without causing more damage to the environment, and this is a shining example. We are truly excited to play our part in the creation of new opportunities for the people of Seychelles.”
Before the signing ceremony, the Seychellois delegation joined our leaders and academics to visit our agriculture and aquaculture partners in Penang and Cameron Highlands, experiencing how we blend real-world insight with our research and scientific curricula.
The collaboration also paves the way for research and consultancy opportunities, with potential expansions into new agriculture-based industries. It allows both parties to co-develop innovative strategies that address Seychelles’ unique geographical and environmental conditions. A coordination committee will be formed to monitor progress and recommend improvements throughout the collaboration’s initial three-year term.
This MoA not only strengthens diplomatic and academic ties between Malaysia and Seychelles but also sets a benchmark for international cooperation in agriculture and climate resilience. It also represents another step forward in our pursuit of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.
