Directorate of Research and Extension (DoREX)

It is a privilege to serve as the newly appointed Director of the Directorate of Research and Extension (DoREX) at Agriculture and Forestry University (AFU). I am excited to lead this crucial department that connects cutting-edge scientific research with practical applications in agriculture and animal science. Our primary goal is to conduct research that directly addresses the challenges faced by farmers, livestock producers, and rural communities, while also disseminating knowledge and technologies to improve livelihoods and support sustainable practices. At AFU, research and extension are vital elements of our mission, alongside teaching, as laid out in the Agriculture and Forestry University Act (2010). The establishment of DoREX underlines our dedication to integrating education, research, and extension in order to drive the development of agriculture, animal sciences, and forestry. DoREX is focused on generating scientific solutions to urgent agricultural challenges, ensuring that research becomes a core function within the university. Following the Land Grant Model (LGM), we emphasize the critical role of combining teaching, research, and extension to meet the needs of our communities. Our goal is to enhance AFU’s academic framework by integrating high-quality research and extension, while maintaining strong collaborations with government organizations involved in extension and research activities.

Under the management of DoREX, we have set up Agriculture Science Centers in strategic locations, such as Palung (Makawanpur) and Ghyalchok (Gorkha). These centers serve as hubs for outreach, offering training, technology demonstrations, and information dissemination. Additionally, we are leading initiatives like mobile clinics for plant and animal health, farmer capacity-building programs, agricultural policy dialogues, and the sharing of research outcomes through reports and record cards. We have also established a Research Cell Unit at our constituent colleges to further enhance academic and research excellence.

Our ongoing commitment to research is evident in the numerous long-term projects we manage, both with internal and external funding. These projects cover a wide range of fields, from agriculture and forestry to animal science and veterinary sciences. I encourage all faculty members and students to get involved in these projects, contributing to the generation of knowledge and addressing real-world challenges. I look forward to working with our distinguished faculty, researchers, and external partners to continue strengthening the contributions of DoREX in advancing agricultural practices and improving the quality of life for rural communities. In our role, we are dedicated to advancing interdisciplinary research, fostering the exchange of knowledge, and strengthening the capacities of both our faculty and students. We aim to ensure that the solutions we generate are not only scientifically sound but also practical and accessible to those who need them most. Our ultimate vision is to help build a resilient agricultural system that promotes economic growth, environmental sustainability, and food security, both locally and globally.

DoREX warmly invites all stakeholders, including government agencies, national and international institutions, and organizations engaged in research, education, and outreach activities, to join us in fostering a wider institutional collaboration. We recognize that addressing the complex challenges in agriculture, animal sciences, and forestry requires collective efforts and the integration of diverse expertise. By collaborating on research, teaching, and outreach, we can create impactful solutions that benefit local communities, enhance sustainable practices, and drive economic and environmental progress.

We look forward to working together to strengthen the links between research, education, and practical applications, and to advancing shared goals for the betterment of society.

With Best Regards.

Nirajan Bhattarai, PhD
Professor of Animal Science and Director
Directorate of Research and Extension