A high-level delegation from Sichuan Agricultural University (SAU) in China visited IAMZ-CIHEAM on 10 October to discuss cooperation in educational programmes.  The delegation was informed about the full IAMZ-CIHEAM educational and cooperation programme. With the help of visiting lecturer Rachael Goodhue from California Davis University, IAMZ-CIHEAM introduced the delegation to the unique IAMZ-CIHEAM model of post graduate education which involves around 30 international visiting lecturers in delivering each of the specialized IAMZ-CIHEAM international Master´s programmes. 

SAU was represented by the Vice President of SAU, Prof. Wu De, Vice Director of the International Office of Exchange and Cooperation, Prof. Xinrong Xia, the Dean of the College of Resources, Mr. Wang Changquan, and the Dean of the College of Agronomy, Mr Huang Yubi.

The Sichuan Delegation was very impressed to be able to access such a powerful academic and teaching network from one educational focal point in the Mediterranean and saw much value in encouraging active exchange between the two organisations.  Mr De and Mr Yubi were particularly interested in discussing student exchange activities for IAMZ's MSc. in Plant Breeding and MSc. in Animal Nutrition which were their respective areas of expertise.  Other IAMZ-CIHEAM MSc. programmes such as Food Marketing were also identified as future potential cooperation areas.

The delegation was welcomed by IAMZ-CIHEAM staff, Alun Jones, Director of Innovation and International Projects, Manuela Cerezo, Head of Educational Programmes and Ramzi Belkhodja, Coordinator of Plant Breeding studies.