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The University of Southern Mindanao (USM) recently welcomed a delegation from Hiroshima University, Japan, as both institutions continue to explore ways to strengthen their collaboration in cacao and chocolate development.
The visit builds on earlier engagements between the two institutions, particularly in initiatives that support grassroots cacao production and capacity-building for local farmers. During the meeting, representatives shared updates on ongoing activities, including training programs and the use of technologies to improve the quality of cacao beans.
Representatives from the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Agrarian Reform (MAFAR) of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) also joined the discussion. The region is a key beneficiary of the project supported by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), which aims to improve cacao production systems through technical support, training, and knowledge exchange.
The group also discussed a proposed Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) that will formalize the partnership between USM and Hiroshima University. They reviewed possible areas of cooperation, including research, extension services, and farmer-level interventions. The agreement remains under review as both sides continue to refine its provisions.
The partnership is expected to help develop the cacao and chocolate industry in BARMM by strengthening local capacities and improving product quality through science-based approaches.
University officials have yet to release full details of the partnership, as coordination among stakeholders is still ongoing.
