Alcorn State University has been granted over $1 million for agricultural capacity-building efforts related to research and programming needs.
The funding came from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), through its National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA).
Grant money was divided among the following projects:
- $589,993 — Chair and Professor of Breeding Dr. Victor Njiti — To execute the study titled “Crop Genetic Enhancement Through Genome Editing Technology and Future Agricultural Leadership Cultivation” in collaboration with Ohio State University.
- $249,976 — Associate director for extension Dr. Franklin Chukwuma — To execute the “Introducing and Integrating Stevia into Rural Mississippi Farm Operations to Improve Community Health and Income” study.
- $149,860 — Assistant Professor of Agricultural Education Dr. Avis Joseph — To execute the study “Enhancing Agricultural Education for the 21st Century Global Economy” study.
Federal officials believe these research investments will strengthen the quality and diversity of the nation’s higher-education workforce, bolster research and knowledge delivery systems, and equip 1890 Land-grant universities with the resources needed to better address emerging challenges and create new opportunities.
“The work these universities will take on as a result of this funding have ripple effects far beyond the walls of their laboratories and classrooms,” Agriculture Deputy Secretary Xochitl Torres Small said. “Through this investment, the Biden-Harris administration is helping deliver real-life, applicable solutions to make our food system stronger while at the same time inspiring the next generation of students and scientists who will help us meet tomorrow’s agricultural challenges.”
USDA awarded $33 million total to support efforts at 19 Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). The investment will support research, extension, and education projects across the United States designated as part of NIFA’s 1890 Capacity Building Grants Program for America’s 1890 Land-grant Universities.
