By AIT Public Affairs
30 September 2024: A delegation from the Rockefeller Foundation visited the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) on 30 September for a roundtable discussion on regenerative agriculture and to showcase collaborative research focused on food and energy transitions. The visit highlighted key projects, including AIT’s advancements in regenerative agriculture, with a field visit to the AIT greenhouses and collaborative dialogues with model farmers.
The Rockefeller Foundation delegation, led by Ms. Natalye Paquin, Chief Operating Officer, included esteemed guests such as Ms. Deepali Khanna, Vice President for Asia, and Ms. Elizabeth Yee, Executive Vice President of Programs.The visit also featured the participation of a delegation of model farmers, fostering a robust exchange of ideas on the future of agriculture and energy research.
In his opening remarks, AIT President Prof. Pai-Chi Li expressed gratitude for the partnership, stating, “This event reflects our shared vision for sustainable development. Both the Rockefeller Foundation and AIT believe in the power of collaboration and education to tackle the complex global challenges we face today. I extend my deepest thanks to the Foundation for its instrumental role in enabling AIT to make a significant impact across the region and beyond.”
Ms. Deepali Khanna, Vice President for Asia at The Rockefeller Foundation, highlighted the Foundation’s long-standing relationship with Thailand, stating, “For over a century, the Rockefeller Foundation has been committed to improving the well-being of humanity. Our partnership with AIT, particularly in food, energy, and climate research, aligns with our mission to drive positive change. We look forward to deepening our collaboration to address global challenges through innovative research.”
Ms. Elizabeth Yee, Executive Vice President of Programs at the Rockefeller Foundation, added, “The Foundation’s strategy now links climate action with food systems, energy, and health. We are excited to continue working closely with AIT in advancing knowledge and tackling these urgent issues. Our partnership is crucial to achieving a net-zero future, and we look forward to building a better world together.”
Prof. Avishek Datta and Prof. Shobhakar Dhakal provided detailed overviews of the institute’s key research initiatives. Prof. Datta discussed AIT’s work in sustainable agriculture, showcasing smart greenhouses, AI-controlled systems, hydroponics, and advanced tissue culture laboratories, all contributing to food security and sustainability while aligning with global climate goals. Prof. Dhakal highlighted AIT’s pioneering research in renewable energy, including solar energy, biomass, biofuels, and integrating renewable energy into power grids.
The visit also featured updates on a two-year research project funded by the Rockefeller Foundation, “Regenerative Agriculture in ASEAN: Promoting Nature-Positive Solutions for Rice Production. “ Launched in August 2023, the project explores the feasibility of using nature-positive solutions for rice production in Thailand, Lao PDR, and Cambodia.
The roundtable discussions allowed the Rockefeller Foundation, AIT researchers, and the model farmers’ delegation to exchange insights and discuss future activities. Key themes included food and energy transitions, a critical focus for both organizations as they seek to address the global challenges of food security and climate change.
The event underscored the ongoing partnership between AIT and the Rockefeller Foundation, highlighting their shared commitment to sustainable development.
