Science communication helps make research outputs accessible to smallholder farmers

Manila, Philippines (October 17, 2023) — Rice research continues to be the core business of the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI). However, for the institute’s scientific outputs to have an impact, IRRI needs to communicate its research to farmers across Asia and Africa. This is where science communication comes in.

Science communication plays an important role in ensuring IRRI’s research-for-development products are shared with different stakeholders, most importantly the farmers, to motivate them to adopt new and better rice varieties and farm management techniques.

The importance of science communication was highlighted at a panel discussion organized by IRRI at the 6th International Rice Congress. This discussion showed perspectives from Africa, South Asia, and the Philippines on using science communications to affect policy change, providing extension services, and making stakeholders more aware of the developments in agricultural R&D.

Serge Savary, editor–in–chief of the Food Security journal, shared his experience and insights on how the journal can be used to determine how the global science community addresses food security questions by analyzing article submissions.

“ Food Security is a place where the major challenges of our world meet,” said Mr. Savary.

The journal receives a large number of submissions from across various locations and regions which are often justified by field research. The ones for publishing are selected based on the issues the articles aim to address. Some issues are temporary while others are long-lasting. Some are minor while others are seemingly persistent and widespread.

“The editorial policy at Food Security is undoubtedly unbiased,” he said.

The highest number of submissions come from the sub-Saharan Africa region followed by South Asia, East Africa, and Southeast Asia. Submissions from sub-Saharan Africa had the highest acceptance rate. Sub-Saharan Africa…