Researchers from UNESUM visited UCE and had the opportunity to observe, both in the laboratory and greenhouse, the process of multiplication and seed production of advanced potato clones and 17 segregating families
FONTAGRO is a unique co-financing mechanism that promotes sustainable development of agricultural in Latin America, the Caribbean, and Spain. It also serves as a forum for discussing priority issues related to technological innovation. As such, FONTAGRO supports projects that contribute to advancing sustainable agricultural practices and improving food security in the region.
The project “Climate-Resilient Potatoes – Andespapa” is one of these initiatives, bringing together institutions from Colombia, Bolivia, and Ecuador. The State University of South Manabí (UNESUM) is a project partner. Faculty researchers from UNESUM participated in the selection of advanced potato clones and segregating families provided by the International Potato Center (CIP) in Peru, based on their drought tolerance, high yield, and quality, in collaboration with colleagues from the Central University of Ecuador (UCE) in Quito.
In May, faculty researchers from UNESUM visited UCE in Quito with the goal of strengthening joint efforts. The activities carried out included:
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Visiting the Tissue Culture and Molecular Biology laboratories at UCE.
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Participatively selecting potato clones and progenies in the greenhouse.
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Engaging in a knowledge exchange dialogue between faculty from UNESUM and UCE.
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Planning activities to be conducted during the 2025–2026 project cycle.
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Participating in the International Seminar on Potato Health and Nutrition held in Tulcán, Ecuador.
Between November and December 2025, UNESUM will establish field evaluation plots in the community of Puerto La Boca Canta Gallo, using 30 advanced potato clones from CIP, which are currently being multiplied at UCE. These materials will be evaluated for their drought tolerance, yield, and tuber quality. In addition, 17 families from new potato crosses will be assessed for their tolerance to drought and heat.
UNESUM will also organize a Farmer Field School to support the management of the research plots. Given that farmers in this area have never cultivated potatoes before, this represents both a significant milestone and a major challenge for the successful implementation of the project. This initiative aims to strengthen collaboration among farmers, researchers, and students within local communities, providing a space for knowledge exchange, applied research, and shared learning.
