Shanhua, Taiwan
January 18, 2010

Southeast Asia’s small-scale vegetable farmers have a new advocate in Dr. Robert Holmer, who has been appointed by AVRDC – The World Vegetable Center to lead its Asian Regional Center in Bangkok, Thailand. As Regional Director, Dr. Holmer will collaborate with donors and partners, develop new projects, and extend the research, development, and capacity-building work of AVRDC through networks to benefit farmers and consumers all along the region’s vegetable value chain.

Dr. Holmer brings a wealth of experience in international development and agricultural research to the post. His recent activities have emphasized capacity building for smallholder farmers, agricultural enterprise development, ecological sanitation, and applied research in vegetable processing for domestic and international markets.

“Robert’s strengths are rooted in education and community development,“ said Dr. Dyno Keatinge, Director General of AVRDC – The World Vegetable Center. “His proven ability to build strong and productive partnerships will help improve nutrition, food safety, and job creation throughout Southeast Asia.”

Dr. Holmer received his PhD in Agricultural Sciences from Technische Universität München in 1998. From 1997 to 2009 he led the Peri-Urban Vegetable Project for Xavier University in Cagayan de Oro, Philippines.

Dr. Holmer replaces Dr. Peter Ooi, who retired after four years in the position.

AVRDC – The World Vegetable Center is the principal international not-for-profit institute for vegetable research and development. Founded in 1971, the Center develops vegetable lines and sustainable technologies to increase the production and consumption of safe vegetables in developing countries, leading to more income opportunities and healthier diets for the poor. Primary target groups are small, disadvantaged landholders in Africa, Asia, and Oceania. Headquartered in Taiwan, AVRDC – The World Vegetable Center has regional centers in Thailand, India, Dubai, and Tanzania and offices or staff located in many other developing countries.

Website: https://avrdc.org/

Published: January 18, 2010