“Rice is life”

Awarded the 3rdFrontiers of Knowledge Award in Development Cooperation, Robert Ziegler, Director of the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), explains in this interview how rice breeding and agricultural innovation are essential to ensuring food security for millions of people in Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Ziegler details how IRRI’s work has led to the development of more productive varieties, resistant to pests, floods, and droughts, contributing to reducing rural poverty and strengthening the resilience of agricultural systems. His reflections underscore the importance of investing in science, supporting farmers, and fostering international cooperation to address the challenges of climate change and population growth.

The BBVA Foundation Frontiers of Knowledge Award in the Development Cooperation category goes in this third edition to the International Rice Resear

Awarded the 3rdFrontiers of Knowledge Award in Development Cooperation, Robert Ziegler, Director of the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), explains in this interview how rice breeding and agricultural innovation are essential to ensuring food security for millions of people in Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Ziegler details how IRRI’s work has led to the development of more productive varieties, resistant to pests, floods, and droughts, contributing to reducing rural poverty and strengthening the resilience of agricultural systems. His reflections underscore the importance of investing in science, supporting farmers, and fostering international cooperation to address the challenges of climate change and population growth.

The BBVA Foundation Frontiers of Knowledge Award in the Development Cooperation category goes in this third edition to the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) for its contribution to reducing poverty and hunger in the world by means of rice research and farmer training.