Directorate of Research and Extension (DoREX)

I am pleased to extend warm greetings to all of you as the Director of the Directorate of Research and Extension (DoREX), Agriculture and Forestry University (AFU). At AFU, research and extension activities to be integral components alongside teaching, as mandated in our Agriculture and Forestry University Act (2010).The establishment of DoREX is a testament to our commitment to integrating teaching, research, and extension to contribute meaningfully to the development of agriculture, animal sciences, and forestry.

The primary objectives of DoREX include generating scientific information to address current challenges in agriculture, establishing research as a mandatory function of the university, and operating in a Land-Grant Model (LGM) that recognizes the importance of teaching, research, and extension. We aim to strengthen the university's teaching system through the integration of high-quality research and extension, maintaining close links with government extension and research bodies.

AFU has established Agriculture Science Centers under DoREX management, with centers currently operational in Palung, Makawanpur, and Ghyalchok, Gorkha. These centers serve as outreach hubs for training, technology demonstrations, and information dissemination. Additionally, we have undertaken initiatives such as the establishment of Research and Extension outreach for plant and animal mobile clinics, capacity building of farmers, and Agriculture-based policy dialogues, as well as results dissemination record/report cards and the establishment of a Research Cell Unit in constituent colleges.

The First Graduate Conference 2023 at Agriculture and Forestry University (AFU) themed “Agricultural Transformation Through Education and Research” aimed to create an interdisciplinary platform for young researchers, focusing on agriculture and related fields. Held at AFU, Rampur, Chitwan from November 23-25, 2023, the conference brought together graduates, experts, and policymakers to address economic challenges, maximize resource utilization, and promote sustainable development.It covered thematic areas such as value chain analysis, agribusiness development, veterinary science, fisheries, and climate change. The event employed a comprehensive methodology, resulting in the opportunity for selected papers to be published in the upcoming special issue of the Journal of Agriculture and Forestry University (JAFU) in Volume 7, aligned with the theme of "Agricultural Transformation for Sustainable Development."

I would like to draw your attention to some upcoming events, such as the National Food Safety Policy Workshop scheduled for April 18, 2024, in Kathmandu, Nepal. This workshop provides a platform for engaging discussions on food safety, bringing together experts and stakeholders to address critical issues in the agricultural sector.

Our commitment to research excellence is evident in the ongoing and long-term research projects funded internally and externally. These projects cover a wide range of topics, from agriculture and forestry to animal, veterinary sciences and beyond. I encourage our faculty and students to actively engage in these projects, contributing to the advancement of knowledge and addressing real-world challenges.

I am proud to announce collaborations with various organizations, highlighted by MoUs, LoIs, and NoUs with both national and international entities. These partnerships reflect our commitment to fostering cooperation for the betterment of agricultural research and extension.

Finally, I invite you to explore our Digital Library and Research Management System, where you can access a wealth of information and resources. The link to these valuable tools is provided on our website.

Thank you for your continued support, and I look forward to our collective efforts in advancing research and extension activities at AFU.

Best Regards,

Rishi Ram Kattel,
PhD Directorate of Research and Extension (DoREX)
Agriculture and Forestry University.