Christopher Dowswell Scholarship Fund

One of last quarter’s highlights was the scholarship program’s presentation to the annual World Food Prize ceremony in Ames, Iowa. During a special session, Winrock International – in collaboration with the Sasakawa Fund for Extension Education (SAFE) and Sasakawa Africa Association (SAA) - had the opportunity to discuss the scholarship program with leaders from the private, non-profit and public sectors. The presentation focused on the need to increase the number of front-line agricultural extension agents. It also outlined the following reasons why the scholarship program promotes the role of women in agriculture:

• Women farmers produce 70 percent of Africa’s food. If we are to increase food availability in Africa, we need to reach female farmers.
• In some cultures, there is no communications between male extension agents. Consequently, only 5 percent of rural women receive agriculture extension services.
• The World Bank estimates that yields of food crops will increase by up to 30% if best agricultural practices can be conveyed to women farmers.
• Once women agricultural extension officers are recruited, it is more likely that nutrition and health counseling can be integrated into the agricultural advisory services.
• Increasing the agricultural productivity of women farmers will increase their income and improve the health and education of their children.

We are happy to report that the Dowswell scholars continute to make excellent progress. Winrock International appreciates your support for the Dowswell scholarship program. Thank you for your generosity!