Name
Nurturing Local Roots: A Collaborative Journey to Food Security in Senegal
Date & Time
Tuesday, June 3, 2025, 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Description

In collaboration with Virginia Tech (VT) and supported by a five-year USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) grant, Tennessee State University (TSU) students addressed food safety, security, and preservation challenges in Senegal. This initiative, now in its fourth year, expands the pipeline of extension agents in agriculture while addressing food concerns. In May 2024, four TSU NEXTGen scholars joined Virginia Tech (VT) students in Senegal to train women in the Diourbel community on food preservation. This hands-on initiative focused on effective techniques for preserving mangos and tomatoes. Participants learned to can and preserve mango salsa and tomatoes, equipping them with practical skills to reduce food spoilage and minimize wastage. The training emphasized sustainable food management practices, enhancing the community’s capacity to extend the shelf life of local produce. The initiative sought to improve food security and ensure a steady supply of safe, nutritious food throughout the year by building these essential skills. This effort empowered the women of Diourbel and contributed to the stability and resilience of the local food systems. Promoting sustainable practices, the project seeks to enhance the resilience and stability of Senegal's fragile food systems. These efforts provide solutions to reduce post-harvest losses and foster self-sufficiency in communities where hunger persists. While Senegalese people are resilient, their food systems remain vulnerable. Together, we aim to leave a lasting impact, empowering these communities to overcome adversity and build a brighter future. The collaboration between TSU, VT, and the local Senegalese communities highlights the power of compassion and international partnerships in addressing urgent global challenges. This initiative exemplifies how experiential learning and cross-cultural collaboration can make a meaningful impact in addressing critical issues like food insecurity, all while preparing the next generation of agricultural professionals to lead with knowledge, empathy, and innovation.

Location Name
British Columbia/Alberta/Yukon Ballroom
Full Address
The Westin Edmonton
10135 100 St NW
Edmonton AB T5J 0N7
Canada
Session Type
Poster Presentation
Presentation Topic(s)
Practice of Teaching
Number
204
Authors

Lana Petrie, Tennessee State University
Aaliyah Cotton, Tennessee State University
Grace Colvin, Tennessee State University
Kennedy Bentley, Tennessee State University
Semira Curry, Tennessee State University
Rick Rudd, Virginia Tech
John Ricketts, Tennessee State University