In order to ensure the practical application of our research findings, we focus on designing appropriate and climate-resilient agronomic practices for sustainable crop production. The transition from modern agriculture to ecologically intensified production in both urban and rural areas has been a central topic in scientific debates. However, the significance and roles of plant genetic resources in achieving sustainable and productive ecological agriculture are often overlooked. Our research and training group are actively engaged in investigating ways and approaches to model how the selection and use of specific genetic resources, both animal and plant, can optimize the production of traditional farming systems. The ultimate goals are to enhance food and nutrition security while promoting environmentally friendly production practices in sub-Saharan Africa. As part of our practical initiatives, the Unit manages the Vegetable Garden of the Faculty of Agronomic Sciences. This garden serves as an application field for testing innovations with the aim of scaling out and up. Additionally, the garden is utilized for academic purposes, production activities, and as a showcase for good agricultural practices. The products harvested from the garden are made available to university communities and local residents at affordable prices, fostering community engagement and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
