Genesis, evolution and strategic thrusts of RUFORUM

Abstract

The genesis and evolution of RUFORUM arose out of the recognition by 10 universities
in East and southern Africa of the considerable gains to be made by continuing with the
formalization of the relationships established out of a donor programme-Forum for Agricultural
Resource Husbandry, “the Forum” which had been established by the Rockefeller Foundation
in 1992. The new African initiated and led institution was based on adapting “the Forum”
strategy of linking university faculty and students with other African institutions as well as
with smallholder farmers and other national innovation system actors. The new network
would work together to package and market the programme to broaden donor support for
intensifying efforts to improve quality and relevance and increase access to post-graduate
education within Africa. The purpose of this review is to reflect on the transition processes
from “the Forum” to RUFORUM so as to provide key lessons in organizational dynamics as
institutions undergo transformation for continued relevance to food security and inclusive
and sustainable development. In 1993, “the Forum”provided funding on a competitive basis
to 10 universities1 requiring that post-graduate students work in the field with smallholder
farmers and in a more participatory way on issues that were demand-driven. Universities and
faculty were supported with research infrastructure and equipment support and funds allowing
them to improve supervision and visit students in the field as well as support for all the 10
universities, Deans, student researchers and their lecturers were facilitated to meet annually.
At these meetings relationships were strengthened,