1. Report of the Review (2009-2013)
of
National Agricultural Research & Extension Institute
Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara
National Agricultural Research & Extension Institute, Mon Repos,
East Coast Demerara, Ministry of Agriculture, Georgetown, Guyana
Phone +592-2202249, 2200072, Fax: 2204481,
E mail: nareiceo@gmail.com, Web page: www.narei.org.gy
3. Preface
National Agricultural Research & Training Institute (NAREI) is the premier Institute of the
Nation, which is engaged in the propelling agricultural growth through generation of new
technologies as well as their dissemination to the farming community. Therefore, it is matter of
happiness to review its progress of research and extension during 2009-13. Overall, the Institute
made good progress in all spheres of its activities. It has minimum needed infrastructure for
research in new and emerging areas especially biotechnology, protected cultivation, controlled
atmospheric research, and computerization etc. However, the institute still suffers from several
constraints articulated in this report which need to be addressed. Fewer but important
recommendations are made which if implemented, it is believed, would lead to positioning
NAREI as high class research and extension institution in the region. Change is must with time
and space and often it is resisted in organization but if implemented can bring sea changes and
make the organization more vibrant and responsible to needs of its donors and stakeholders
besides serving as priceless hub of trained and experienced human resources. The views I
submitted which may be subject to further refinement with time and at different levels are based
on my own experience as researcher at NAREI during my two years of working, frank
discussions with management, staff and higher authorities in ministry of agriculture, stakeholders
,entrepreneurs and sister institutes as an independent reviewer. As a reviewer I would like to
express my gratitude to Hon. Minister of Agriculture, Government of Guyana and Permanent
Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture, for giving me an opportunity for reviewing the work of
NAREI. Thank to Dr. O. Homenauth, CEO, NAREI, sincerely for his utmost cooperation,
support and making the review work an enjoyable experience. Mr. Dwarka Basudeo, Deputy
CEO and Mr. Brian Sear, Assistant CEO also deserves appreciations for discussions and input to
prepare the review. I am is also thankful to different heads and scientists of various divisions and
units, regional stations of NAREI, office of CEO and the staff of NAREI for their willing
cooperation and providing information. At last but least to Hon. High Commissioner of India,
Georgetown for arranging my assignment at NAREI.
D. P. Singh
Institutional Specialist in Agricultural Research/ ITEC Expert
4. Table of contents
Preface
Topic Pages
About Guyana and NAREI 1-3
Mandates and Objectives 4-5
Organization 6
Management 7
Awards, Trainings and Publications 7
Externally Funded Projects 7
Faculty Strength 7
Transfer Policy 7
Patents Filed 7
Budget of the Institute 8
Policies, Priorities, Strategies and Programmes 8
Prioritisation in Relation to Mandate, Objectives, Programmes, 9-10
Strategies and Perspectives
Impact of work of NAREI 10
Recommendations 11-14
Overall assessment 14
Review of programmes, projects, and units
Crop Improvement 15-16
Plant Genetic Resources, tissue culture and plant biotechnology laboratory 16-18
Plant Protection 18-19
National Plant Protection Organization (NPPO) and Plant Quarantine 19-21
Resource Management 21-22
Agronomy, Horticulture and Seed technology 22-23
Extension 23-25
National Mangrove Management Action Plan 25
Bio fuel research 26
Post Harvest and Agro processing 26
Climate Change and Agricultural Adaptation Unit 26
Farm operations service unit, Research Fields 27
Estate 27-28
Transport 28-29
Store 29-30
Finance
Human Resources, career advancement, staff welfare 30-31
IT, Web page, reprographic and Library facilities 32-32
Out stations: Regional Research Centres 32-33
Horticultural Nurseries 33-34
Annexures I-X-: Formats for reviewing the progress of different programmes 35-42
5. About Guyana Agriculture and NAREI
Guyana is located between the northern and western hemisphere. The latitude/longitude of
Georgetown (capital city) is 6° 48' N, 58° 9' W. The coastal areas have fertile but acidic soils
and can support intensive agriculture. The Pegasse soil (tropical peat) found along the river
estuaries. The rock soils are present in interior and these are leached and infertile, whereas white
sands represent mostly pure quartz.
The most of the fertile land lies below one meter of seas level and has to be protected from seas
water thus agriculture is expensive and difficult. The land is divided in to belt of sand, and
interior highlands, plateaus, and savannah.
The climate is typical characterized with heavy rain. It is tropical wet climate with a flat high
average monthly temperature along with heavy precipitation throughout the year, with only two
drier months. The coastal regions of Guyana have annual temperatures ranging from 22-32 °C.
National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) is designated as “The Premier
Research and Extension Organization” and is responsible for spearheading agricultural research
and extension activities for productivity enhancement and diversification of the non- traditional
crops sector (fruits and vegetables), bio fuel development as well as for plant quarantine services.
The Institute is actively engaged in adaptive research that focuses on improving crop production/
productivity for enhanced food security and rural development. Emphasis is placed on crop
diversification from high volume- low income to low volume- high income crops such as spices
and other cash crops, new vegetables (cauliflower, broccoli, red cabbage and sweet pepper), IPM
approach to managing biotic stresses, procurement and evaluation of exotic germplasm of
cereals, food legumes, minor millets, root and tuber crops, vegetables and fruits, cassava
revitalization, and technology dissemination through use of information technology tools. The
promotion of Climate Smart Agricultural Practices inclusive of protected agricultural systems for
year round vegetable production, hydroponics and drip irrigation is also given prominence.
NAREI‟s Strategic Plan (2013- 2020) envisions the Institute as being the major facilitator for a
prosperous, food secure and environmentally sustainable Guyana. This will be achieved through
enhancing agricultural productivity and quality of produce through generation and dissemination
of newer and efficient technologies and services reduced import of agri produce and products,
reduced malnutrition and environmental degradation and enhanced exports taking into
consideration the changing global and business environments.
National Agriculture Research Institute (NARI) was established on the 6th October, 1984. It was
given responsibility to increase productivity in agriculture, which can support crops and
livestock and sustain those production efforts and agro based industries most appropriate to the
ecological and economic attributes of the eco-zone. It was also aimed to development the
technologies for production and maximization of returns in agriculture. During December 2010
with new Act of Parliament the mandate of NARI was redefined with detachment of livestock
section and adding of extension and plant quarantine services. The name was also changed to
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6. National Agricultural Research and extension institute (NAREI). It is situated at Mon Repos in
East Coast of Demerara on Agriculture road, about 25 km away from capital city, Georgetown.
The facts about nontraditional crops in Guyana
The sub-sector of nontraditional is not structured along the lines of those developed
for rice and sugar.
The major non-traditional crops (NTCs) are the following: Cereals and Legumes:
corn, soybean, black eye, minica; Oilseeds: coconut; Ground Provisions: cassava,
sweet potatoes, eddoes, yam, tania/dasheen, plantains; Vegetables and greens:
tomatoes, cabbage, pumpkin, bora, ochro, boulanger, squash, cucumber; onion,
potato Herbs, Spices and Seasonings: eschallot, hot pepper, ginger, turmeric; black
pepper Fruits: banana, pineapple, pear, carambola and watermelon; Other Fruits:
mangoes, genip, cherry, awara; Citrus: lime, grapefruit, orange; Other Crops: Coffee,
cocoa, ornamentals and floriculture.
Non-traditional crops are geographically distributed across the 10 regions.
Except for coconut palms, almost all of the fruits, vegetables, legumes and ground
provisions are grown by a large number of small farmers mostly along the coastal belt
and in the riverain areas, but also in enclaves in the intermediate savannahs and in the
townships which border neighbouring countries. In contrast the production of coconut
palms is largely concentrated in the coastal areas, and is achieved chiefly by large
farmers.
Small farmers produce all fruit and most vegetables grown in Guyana, 80 percent of
the grain crops, 60 percent of the coconuts, and 40 percent of the palm oil.
Non-traditional agriculture comprises farming systems that are small in scale, use a
low level of technology, and are labour intensive. Subsistence farming, a tendency to
stick to traditional agricultural practices, and an absence of supportive services to
encourage farmers to adopt improved methodologies for increasing production and
productivity also characterise the sub-sector. However, the sub-sector's contribution
to the livelihood of rural households, national food security, and foreign exchange
earnings are not insignificant.
Guyana is self-sufficient in vegetables (including root crops and tubers) and fruits.
Indeed, it is virtually self-sufficient in all crops, except some spices and temperate
vegetables.
Although the sub-sector's export potential remains relatively low, overseas markets
are opening for a wide variety of crops and will gain momentum with the advent of
improved marketing arrangements. The cases of pineapple and plantain are especially
noteworthy but there is a growing awareness of production and export possibilities for
many other non-traditional crops.
The agri-business and agro-industrial development of the sub-sector are in the hands
of small, poorly resourced independent operators, and the supply chain is
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7. characterised by low productivity, high post-harvest losses, high prices to consumers
and praedial larceny. Nonetheless, the sector provides sustenance to the rural poor,
most of whom are self-employed in agriculture or are workers in the rice and sugar
industries, both of which are seasonal.
Export volumes of non-traditional crops have increased through the initiatives of
small traders rather than through organised and adequately financed operations.
Most of the crop farmers in Guyana are involved in mixed crop farming. Current
agronomic practices are consistent with those for systems of low level technological
packages.
The banana, plantain and coconut production suffered in recent time due to outbreak
of new biotic stresses and climate change.
Inadequate transportation infrastructure and poor transport services are a major
impediment to the marketing of agricultural products within and out of Guyana. Poor
transportation services contribute to the wide spread between ex-farm and retail
prices. Riverain producers and consumers are particularly subject to very inadequate
transportation linkages, but, in general, both water and road transport is unreliable
and high priced.
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8. Mandate and Objectives
Mandate
NARI: To advise and develop technologies for sustained agricultural development (till 2010)
NAREI: To conduct research, technology transfer through the provision of efficient extension
services (after 2010)
Vision
To ensure food security, prosperity and livelihoods of all, using technological innovations in
agriculture
Objectives
To increase productivity and improve the quality of non traditional crops for national use
and for export
Reduction in agricultural imports and increases in exports
Easy and fast dissemination of improved technologies to farmers and stakeholders
Improving and broadening the genetic base of varieties of crops for wider adaptability in
different agro ecological zones in Guyana
Enhanced crop diversification and employing a systems approach for food production
Reduced postharvest losses, safe storage and enhanced seed supply of improved varieties,
value addition, higher profit, better nutrition and women empowerment
Protecting the agriculture production due to climate change and attempts of bio terrorisms
or accidental entry of virulent and aggressive pests from abroad in the country
Adding new knowledge and technologies for making Guyana rich in power generation
though bio fuel production
Protected agriculture to reduce dependence on weather, early production of seedlings,
better propagation of trees and unseasonal vegetable production
Reduction of losses due to diseases and insect pests as well as judicious use of pesticides
by employing IPM practices
Forewarning of outbreak of diseases and insect pests in reducing the losses in yield and
quality
Introduction of new crops for diversification and self-sufficiency
Conservation agriculture to reduce cost of cultivation, higher returns and cleaner
environment
Value addition of fruits, spices, vegetables, etc. to improve shelves life, acceptance and
higher profit
Promotion of urban agriculture to produce fresh vegetables and fruits in surplus land at
home, kitchen gardens
Ensuring proper supply of raw material for local agro industries using coconut,
pineapples, tomatoes, etc.
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9. Release of varieties, registration of indigenous germplasm, patenting the technologies
generated
Income generation through sale of technologies, seeds, saplings of fruit trees, seedlings of
vegetables, consultancies, contract research projects, renting of infrastructure, equipment
and externally funded projects
Linkages with other local and international institutes in agricultural research
Trainings for human resource capacity enhancement help in thesis work of graduate
students
Prevention of the introduction and spread of exotic pests and diseases into Guyana
Enforcement of the Plant Protection act 2011 and the Plant Protection Regulations
Procurement, testing demonstration and training of new and advanced farm machineries
and equipment needed in nontraditional crops from planting to processing
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11. Management
The management of NAREI is in direct control of the government, Minister of Agriculture. The
minister of agriculture gets the feedback through constituted Board of Directors with one
chairman and about seventeen members with one year term. The CEO of NAREI and Permanent
Secretary of ministry of Agriculture are both members of the board. The board of Directors is
advised by three separate advisory committees for research, extension, and plant protection and
quarantine. The institute local management team is consisting of CEO, DCEOs, ACEO, HR
Manager and Senior Finance Manager. The CEO is responsible for executing the policy
directives of the Board of Directors supported by the respective Heads of the National Plant
Protection Organisation (NPPO), Crop Development and Support Services (CDSS) and
Research. The extension programme has two coordinators one for coastal regions and other for
hinterlands. The farm operation services are under HR manager and supervised by Farm
Manager. Likewise there are in charges for Horticultural Nurseries, and research centres.
Awards, Trainings, Publications and Patent filled
The institute received awards for best performance in exhibits, nursery. It conducted regular
trainings to researchers, extension scientists, administrative staff and farmers at NAREI HQ as
well as in different regions through its outreach programmes and extension workers. The major
fields include, crop cultivation under shade, new irrigation methods, pest identification and
control, plant propagation methods, urban agriculture, climate smart agriculture.
The publications were mainly confined to extension bulletins, annual reports, project reports and
thesis work of students of University of Guyana based on collaborative work with NAREI. The
proper research papers published in refereed professional journal were in scanty. No patent was
filled.
Externally Funded Projects
The institute has limited numbers of externally funded projects. These are from EU on
mangroves, IICA for NPPO, FAO etc. The institute id getting support from ITEC programme of
NAREI in terms of getting Experts to work at NAREI and upgrading the qualifications (M.Sc.,
Ph.D., M.Tech) and trainings in Indian universities and institutes.
Faculty Strength
The scientific manpower is quite low and only solo scientist is available for different research
programmes like soils, seed, plant protection, plant biotechnology and tissue culture. One each is
working in Mangrove and bio fuel programmes. Three scientists are on the managerial posts of
CEO, DCEO and ACEO. One scientist is working as In charge of Ebini research centre.
Term and Transfer Policy
The scientists are on one year contract and institute is able to retain these at their respective
programmes except one scientist of water technology which had shifted to Guyana College of
Agriculture.
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12. Budget of the Institute
The institute budget mainly comes from government grants and major portion is used for paying
salaries, pensions, and maintenance of vehicles and equipment.
Policies, Priorities, Strategies and Programmes
The policies are based of agriculture policies of government. The priorities are decided in
consultation with ministry of agriculture. The main priorities of NAREI are to evolve new
technologies for enhancing productivity and quality of nontraditional field crops, vegetables,
spices and fruits besides rice and sugarcane in Guyana in a eco-friendly, sustainable manner and
profitable manner keeping in view of national food security, export and agro processing. Besides,
crops, institute is also working on bio fuel and mangrove restoration projects. Strategies are
chalked for institute at short, medium and long term basis. Different programmes running for
research are as follows besides Extension and Plant Quarantine services:
1. Crop Improvement
2. Plant genetic resources, tissue culture and plant biotechnology
3. Prop Protection
4. National Plant Protection Organization (NPPO) and Plant Quarantine
5. Resource Management (Soils, water management, Farm mechanization and agronomy)
6. Agronomy, Horticulture and Seed technology
7. Extension programme
8. National Mangrove Management Action Plan
9. Bio fuel research
10. Post Harvest and Agro processing
11. Climate Change and Agricultural Adaptation Unit
12. Farm operations service unit, Research Fields
13. Estate
14. Human Resources, career advancement, staff welfare
15. Finance
16. IT, Web page, reprographic and Library facilities
17. Out stations: Ebini, Kairuni, St. Ignatius
18. Horticultural Nurseries
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13. Significant achievements of the institute during the past five years
1. Generated new varieties introduced new crops and improved production technology for
corn, soybean, vegetables, spices and fruits.
2. Enhanced, evaluated and maintained the germplasm of field crops, vegetables, spices
and fruit trees.
3. Multiplied and supplied the promising varieties of fruit trees, planting material of spices,
seeds of crops and vegetables to farmers.
4. Restored the mangrove s along with sea shores.
5. Developed technology for production of bio fuel from sugarcane by product and tested it
as an alternate fuel to fossil fuel.
6. Developed and demonstrated technology for protected agriculture for production of
vegetables during rainy seasons.
7. Provided services for testing of soil, supply of Rhizobium inoculum, diagnosis of
diseases and insect pests samples of farmers, issue of import permit, plant health
certificates, field certification etc. on regular basis mostly free of cost to stakeholders.
8. Conducted surveys for diseases and insect pests (Red palm mite, Sigatoka disease of
Musa spp. etc.) and developed management practices along with awareness programme
to growers.
9. Conducted training programmes to farmers on improved technologies in agriculture
including climate smart agriculture and propagation techniques of fruit crops.
10. Collaborated with national and international institutes for germplasm collection, new
varieties, trainings, and new projects and assisted UG and PG students to conduct
research work for their degree programmes.
11. The surveillance for preventing entry of new pests in Guyana and pest risk analysis was
undertaken.
12. The new crops, varieties, production and protection technologies were disseminated
effectively to farmers across the 10 regions of Guyana.
13. Provided inputs for new Acts related to agriculture, policy drafts and strategic planning to
the government and regional bodies.
14. Organized scientific conferences, meetings, seminars and discussions on agriculture and
provided inputs to sister organizations including university, colleges and schools in
Guyana in their activities and curriculum development.
15. Strengthened the infrastructure and modernize the facilities at NAREI, laboratories,
research farms, out stations, nurseries, and regions related to research, seed production,
processing of seed and spices, extension activities, services and plant quarantine.
16. Developed synergies for close and coordinated working between research, extension and
plant quarantine programmes along with support from service units like Finance, HR,
Administration, Farm, Estate, Security, Transport etc.
Limitations
1. The major limitation in achieving the progress was experienced due to mandate to work
on too many commodities (about 40 crops) unlike Guyana Rice Development Board and
Guyana Sugarcane Corporation (GUYSUCO).
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14. 2. The strength of scientific manpower remained extremely poor in spite of its multi crop
mandate.
3.
4. The restructuring of NAREI during 2011 took place thus need more time and energy for
developing synergies.
5. Part of its efforts could have gone towards live stock sector which was detached from
NAREI during 2010 and evolved to new entity (GLDA).
6. The national level mandate needs better resources to operate including strengthening
regional facilities.
7. The germplasm conservation requires long and medium term storage facilities for seeds
8. in terms of „National gene bank‟ which is still lacking at NAREI including renovation of
tissue culture laboratory.
9. The integrated weed and pest management research needs more resources in terms of
trained manpower and state of art technology laboratories at NAREI.
10. The outsourcing of trained specialist remained at low pace in spite of problems like
emergence of destructive pests and diseases, decline of coconut plantations and scarcity
of new varieties, germplasm and preliminary crop improvement and seed production
work in nontraditional crops.
11. The higher responsibilities of conduct of research on multi crops did not allow the
researchers to come up good publications in scientific journals.
Impact of work of NAREI
This was measured in terms of institute's work in the form of development and dissemination of
improved and new production technologies evolved by the institute, their expression on farmers'
fields in the form of area covered, increased productivity and production, increase in the income
of farmers, and any other socio-economic benefits. There had been good impact of work of
institute in increasing production of vegetables like tomato, cabbage, hot pepper, bora etc. The
new technology for cultivation of corn and soybean is ready to be exploited on commercial basis.
The new crops (potato, onion, carrots, cauliflower, pulses) have been tested and institute made
good progress with better prospects in future. The farmers benefited a lot due to supply of
improved varieties of fruit crops and spice production technology. The shed house technology
along with sprinkler and drip irrigation helped to increase production of vegetables. The
extension services did remarkable job of management of Ant baits and planting material to
hinterland farmers, awareness and management of Sigatoka disease of banana and plantain,
processing of turmeric and supply of seedlings of fruit trees. The plant quarantine programme
has made the export and import of planting material and crop produce easy and prevented entry
of threatening pests in Guyana. The institute has helped the students in their degree work also.
The institute brought extension bulletins on crop production and protection technologies
including smart agriculture as well as initiated seminar series. The reaction of stakeholders
towards NAREI remained positive and nontraditional crops are contributing in crop and food
diversification, nutrition and income generation including foreign exchange and reduced import.
The institute is doing its best to keep balance between basic, strategic and applied researches.
The services rendered such as sample analysis, training, demonstration, education, exchange of
research material, etc. worth appreciation.
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15. Recommendations
After thorough analysis of activities, programmes, projects and reports of NAREI following
recommendations are offered which may be accepted for the effective working and meeting the
new challenges at NAREI:
Structure and organization
The present set up is good for managing the institute but more autonomy, resources and
monitoring of progress is needed at the levels of heads of programmes, scientists, farm
management, research stations and nurseries. It may be achieved through delegation of financial
powers (Imprest and revolving funds to Heads and scientists, Project investigators of externally
funded projects, attachment of vehicles to programmes, field workers for specialized jobs), more
remuneration for high inputs in terms of consultancy fee to researchers, team members and
administrative staff attached to fund generation programmes (sale of seeds, seedlings, sample
analysis, issue of permits, contract research for testing of chemicals and new varieties of private
sector, visits to private farms, rental of equipments, buildings, facilities etc.). The autonomy must
be linked with assessment of performance of team on six monthly and yearly basis.
Management practices
A reasonable balance in the allocation of funds to salary costs of the scientists, technical officers,
supporting staff, administrative staff and for the conduct of research itself including equipment,
chemicals and other consumable and non-consumable items may be kept in special projects
according to guidelines of Ministry of Agriculture. The maintenance cost also constitutes
another discrete part of the budget. The recommendations of different committees and Board of
Directors may be considered in allocation and distribution of funds in such projects.
Collaboration with university and other research institutions
In view of present and future developments, business environment, and policies of government,
the institute needs to enhance collaboration with both public and private R&D units. The
research in present time becomes advanced and inter-disciplinary in nature and further progress
will be through increasing collaboration between different research centres. NAREI has to
collaborate well with CGIAR institutes, improve feedbacks with these, regional and national
institutes. A good progress has been made in recent years in this direction at NAREI which may
further be strengthened.
Linkages with clients/end-users
The extension services are the integral part of NAREI since 2011. However, due to want of fully
reorganized extension service, more relevant to the current needs of the farmers, the institute's
linkages with the farming community, agri-business companies and NGOs good linkages have
become particularly important. Training programmes for stakeholders both in the public sector
and the private sector has to be strengthened. The publication programme in the form of
extension bulletins and other forms of communications using information technology are the
needs of hour for effective dissemination of technologies generated at NAREI and passing
dividends of these in the shortest time to farmers and other stakeholders. The front-line
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16. demonstrations and collaboration with the MOA and other agencies should receive special
attention. The yield gap analysis between experiential and farmers‟ fields need to be carried out
by the institute on urgent basis so as to demonstrate institute's proactive role in narrowing the
yield gap.
Human, physical and financial resources
Although MOA, provides adequate resources to NAREI, however, the availability of these on
time of actual need and efficient use of these resources need a relook. The human development
programmes of the institute has been reviewed and found promising at the level of management,
administrative and financial services levels. However, proper scientific and technical resources at
programme, farm and estate levels need urgent strengthening in terms of number and skill up
gradation. The five yearly contract for researchers and team members along with career
advancement opportunity after proper assessment of progress of work and their achievements
will help to build up high output teams and act as assets to NAREI. The scientists and technical
staff may be granted advancement increments and promotions on improving their degrees to the
level of doctorate and masters and may be encouraged to go on study leaves on easy terms.
Likewise other staff may be encouraged to go for skill up gradations in new techniques and
computer skills. Office atomization in administrative, finance, store, farm, estate, guest house
and security may be taken up keeping in view of new technologies.
Planning for the future
In the fast changing world of science and technology, and as Guyanese agriculture faces new
challenges, every institute is called upon to have a clear vision for its future and prepare itself for
the new challenges and opportunities. The documents prepared by the institute in this regard may
be reviewed. Organization change is must to cope up new challenges and it a continuous process
but often objected by staff and management has to use proper techniques to resolve the state
brought due to change in the organization.
Recommendations for repositioning of programmes, projects, activities etc
Although restructuring of NAREI is a major steps towards its repositioning of activities and
greater efficiency but still few steps need to be taken at right direction to reap the benefit of
NAREI for the benefit of society and its contribution to GDP of the country. After though
analysis of activities undertaken during part five years, annual reports, project reports,
technologies generated, services provides and also based on its current activities following
suggestions are given which may be given due importance to make NAREI most vibrant and
world class research, extension and service institutions in agriculture research in Guyana
especially on nontraditional crops:
1. Closure linkages and interactions with different programmes dealing with research,
extension and plant quarantine. Also better linkages with CGIAR institutions, FAO,
ITEC programme, IICA, Ministry of Agriculture, other sister institutes dealing with
agriculture and universities and colleges is the hour of need to NAREI.
2. Involvement of all programmes while formulating new research projects as well as
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17. 3. presenting the progress reports at regular intervals for wider consultations, suggestions
and making these demand oriented rather exploratory in nature.
4. The crop improvement programme has to be strengthened and more diverse germplasm
and new varieties need to be tested at multi locations in Guyana without waiting further.
5. The seed production has to be taken on corporate way and through collaboration with
institutes, NGOs, progressive farmers and private sector. A revolving fund may be
generating to support seed production activity with more autonomy to seed in charge.
6. The scientific strength needs to be strengthened two to three times of present strength to
implement new strategic and developmental plan of NAREI. It needs to upgrade the
qualifications of existing scientists, technical staff as well as recruitment besides
outsourcing of experts.
7. The research facilities (testing locations, seed farms, laboratories, equipments,
implements, grass houses, net houses, farm irrigation, weed management, drainage, farm
security, post harvest operations, seed processing, seed storage etc.) need immediate up
gradation to conduct and produce quality data for meaningful results and generating
robust technologies.
8. The record keeping of project reports, files, data, photographs etc. has to be done in a
professional way and technical cell of CEO has to deal with such matter and not always
office secretary.
9. The monitoring of field trials, projects, research stations, seed production facilities has to
be done in a professional manner to improve conduct activities. The data need to be
generated to fit for statistical inferences.
10. The publication of research results needs much improvement.
11. The web page may be made more informative to stakeholders and may be used for
dissemination of technologies generated, forewarning and management of biotic and
abiotic stresses as well as sale of seed, seedlings, sampling besides for new news items.
12. The germplasm of horticultural plants may be carefully maintained at nurseries and
research farms.
13. NAREI may evolve attractive conditions of services, career advancement, skill up
gradation, facilities and benefits to its staff for attracting the best talent and building
productive teams on long term basis.
14. The resource generation of NAREI may be strengthened through seeking more externally
funding projects, better linkages, charging for services, consultancies, technologies
generated and renting out of resources.
15. The payment of cess on export of non tradition crop produce to NAREI may also be
considered to generate funds to support NAREI.
16. More autonomy in terms of resources, powers for sanction money related to externally
funded projects, contract research projects, services, consultancies and sale of seeds and
planting material may be delegated to concerned heads of programme with greater
responsibility and answering to mange resources effectively for the benefit of proper
progress of projects.
17. Regular annual meeting of scientists and technical officers may be done to review the
progress made, technologies generated, and plan for the future activities at institute level.
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18. 18. The regular reviews (five yearly basis) of NAREI may be conducted through an
independent agency for proper auditing of research activities.
19. The Board of directors and other committees dealing with research, extension and plant
quarantine may be given access to the sites where technologies are generated and to show
the impact of these to the farmers and other stakeholders
Overall assessment
The overall rating of the institute under the leadership of CEO may not be rated below very good
with potential of rating as outstanding in near future once the bottlenecks beyond the level of
NAREI are resolved. The rating is based on the extent and quality of achievements and solutions
provided by NAREI to its mandated crops and challenges faced with available human, financial
and operation resources. The perform may be improved further if more scientists and facilities
are created at NAREI in near future along with reduced mandate of numbers of crop
commodities. It is pertinent to indicate here that at GRDB, only rice is the mandate crop with
good human and financial support and same is true with GUYSUCO. Further autonomy to
researchers, extension and plant quarantine scientists for their project work and strengthening
facilities and approach foot out station research along with better inter institutional linkages will
make immediate positive impact on output of different programmes. The out sourcing of experts
may be strengthened in key areas of nontraditional crop research, extension and plant quarantine
services till time local expertise is groomed and available.
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19. Review of programmes, projects, and units
1. Crop Improvement
Crop improvement is the major thrust area for crop production and it is continuous in nature. The
genetic improvement of the local crop varieties and land races as well as introduction of exotic
varieties suitable for climatic conditions of Guyana is therefore best technology for improving
crop productivity and mitigating the climate change. Besides yields, the new varieties are better
in quality, taste, processing and for export market. The crop improvement has been recently
initiated in a systemic way at Guyana in crops like corn and food legumes with the engagement
of ITEC experts at NAREI.
Project
1. Faster crop improvement for promoting diversification in cropping system, higher
productivity and sustainable crop production under changing climatic conditions in
Guyana
Major Achievements
1. New varieties and genetic stocks have been tested in corn, hot pepper, wheat, food
legumes, vegetables, cassava, sweet potato, minor millets and guava.
2. New high yielding varieties in corn and hot pepper have been identified and proposed for
release while in other crops these are in progress.
3. The see of improved varieties has been procured and multiplied.
Limitations
Lack of enough genetic variability, testing sites, seed production and breeding
programme for field and horticultural crops.
Lack of any released variety in nontraditional crop.
Tendency of testing one-two imported varieties of crops and lack of statistical inferences
of data.
Lack of varietal rights (IPR) in case of varieties adopted in Guyana from neighbouring
countries.
No report to CGIAR institutes for conduct of trial.
Lack of coordination and uniformity in conduct of yield trials at multi locations.
Suggestions
Close linkages with CGIAR institutes, regional institutes may help to get desired varieties
and germplasm of crops for testing and release in Guyana with infringing the IPR.
The seed of germplasm (both local and exotic) of crops, nucleus seed of varieties,
parental lines may be kept for medium to long term use in breeding.
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20. The breeding efforts may be initiated in vegetables and field crops. The germplasm of
root and tuber crops, coconut and fruit trees may be imported, tested and promising
varieties may be identified.
The finger printing of released and local varieties along with DUS characters may be
taken up.
The tissue culture facilities may be initiated for hardening of imported germplasm of
vegetative propagated crops.
The expertise may be hired in breeding programmes to meet the shortage.
The coordinated crop improvement programmes may be initiated and continued in crops
of importance to national and regional food security and export.
2. Plant Genetic Resources, tissue culture and plant biotechnology laboratory
Plant genetic resources are of prime importance for future crop improvement work and becoming
difficult to get due to implication of intellectual property right (IPR) regime. It is therefore
necessary to conserve local and imported exotic germplasm of crops in Guyana. Likewise in situ
conservation of germplasm of root and tuber crops and for the want of its cross border
movement, tissue culture facilities are necessary besides multiplication of disease free plantlets
of vegetatively propagated crops.
Following projects were undertaken in the programme during 2009-2013:
1. Production of Tissue-cultured Plantlets of Targeted Crop Species to be used as
Foundation „seed‟ Stocks for Commercial Planting Material Production
2. Mass Regeneration of „Seed‟ Cuttings from Sweet Potato Germplasm Banks at
Kairuni and Ebini Out-stations
3. Field Evaluation of Somaclonal Drift in Tissue Culture-derived Plantain and Banana
„Seed Sucker‟ Stocks
4. Establishment of On-farm and Out-station Depositories of Targeted Crop Species
5. Local and Joint Expedition to Sample the Diversity of Local Crop Species
6. Refinement of Tissue Culture Techniques and Modification of Culture Media
Formulations to Improve the Regeneration Efficiency of Tissue Culture-derived
Clones of Targeted Crop Species
7. Upgrading of Existing Laboratory Facility in Main Building to Plant Biotechnology
Research Lab Status
8. Establishment of outstation field depositories of mango, coconut, cassava and
avocado
9. Local and joint expedition to sample the diversity of local crop spp.
10. Establishment of National information sharing mechanism (NISM) on the Global
Plan of action (GPA) and compilation of the second report on the status of Plant
Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (PGRFA) in Guyana
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21. Guyana- CARDI-GCDT Project for the conservation of targeted crop spp.
11. Yield and yield component inter-relationships among 12 drought tolerant accessions
of cassava cultivated in a white sand ecology
12. Calibration of DNA Analysis-related Equipment and Instruments using Micro-
satellite Analysis of Bean Genetic Diversity through in-house Training by Overseas
Collaborators
13. Characterization of Selected Local Crop Genetic Diversity Using a Combination of
Morphological Descriptors and DNA Molecular Marker Techniques
14. Use of Morphological Descriptors and Application of DNA Molecular Markers to
Purify Populations of Bora (Vigna spp.) and Minica (Vigna spp.) Seed stocks
Segregating for Agronomic Traits and Morphological Descriptors
15. Maintenance of On-farm and Out-station Depositories of Targeted Crop Species
16. Establishment of Out-station Mass Generation of „Seed Cutting‟ Plots of Cassava
Cultivars
17. Departmental Acquisition of Equipment and Materials, and Use of Services
Major Achievements
The programme did the commendable job in collection, multiplication conservation and
evaluation of germplasm of fruit trees like Mango, Coconut, Avocado) and crops like
Cassava and Sweet potato in field.
The conservation of germplasm at more than one centre is a good thinking.
The cassava germplasm was deposited at CIAT.
In Aberdeen canal community, 140 bastard mother palms were evaluated. A total of 497
seed plants were collected.
Limitations
The programme lacked medium and long term facilities to store the germplasm of field
crops and vegetables in situ. The seed of germplasm was not properly maintained and
rejuvenated.
The tissue culture facilities were not functional and therefore adversely affected
introduction and in situ conservation of germplasm of root and tuber crops.
Poor linkages with CGIAR institutes affected the flow of promising germplasm of crops
and vegetables.
Suggestions
The indigenous and exotic germplasm may be collected through strategic surveys and
collaboration with international and regional institutes.
The medium to long term „gene bank „ facilities may be established from crop germplasm
collection and storage at NAREI keeping in view of IPR regime and difficulties to
procure new germplasm of crops.
The efforts may be made to characterize and use the available germplasm for selection
and breeding.
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22. The testing of germplasm may be strengthened at regional basis.
The post entry quarantine facilities may be strengthened at NAREI for germplasm of
crops and horticultural plants entering in Guyana.
The fingerprinting of local germplasm and varieties of crops and fruit trees may be done.
3. Plant Protection Programme
The programme is responsible to conduct research on management of biotic stresses (diseases,
insect pests, nematodes and weeds) affecting yield and quality of crops in Guyana. The plant
protection programme of NAREI dealt mainly with diagnostics of infected samples of crops,
management recommendations, black Sigatoka disease and other diseases of Musa spp. ant bait
preparation, brown coconut mite, biocontrol of aquatic weeds, mealy bug management and
etiology of gummosis disease of pineapple.
Following projects were undertaken during 2009-2013:
1. Identification of the diseases that are affecting the Musa spp. in Guyana (with special
reference to the Sigatoka disease).
2. Integrated management of weed in aquatic environment
3. Provision of information for improved management of crop pests and diseases
4. Musa disease assessment within the country
5. Musa disease management strategies
6. Training of staffs and farmers
7. Public awareness and sensitization
8. Integrated Management of Weeds in Aquatic Environment
9. Evaluation of an integrated management system for the control of the ant- mealy bug
complex of pineapple
10. Investigation of the causative agents of Gummosis on Pineapple (Ananas spp.)
11. Evaluation of an Integrated Pest Management System for the control of Sigatoka diseases
of Plantain and Banana in Guyana
12. Ant bait facility
13. Evaluation of an integrated management system for the control of the ant- mealy bug
complex of pineapple
14. Identification and integrated management of vectors responsible for the transmission of
viruses in hot pepper
15. Diagnostic services for pest and disease identification and management
Major achievements
The major achievements are in the field of production and distribution of ant bait packets
in the affected areas for the management of ants, survey, diagnosis, epidemiology,
management and sensitization of farmers to black Sigatoka disease of banana and
plantain.
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23. Training programmes conducted: “Integrated Approach to Aquatic Weed Management in
Guyana” held in collaboration with NARI and the Food and Agriculture Organization of
the United Nations (FAO) in Guyana, 2009.
Limitations
The major limitation of programme is to diagnose the causal agents of diseases up to
species level, detection of diversity in pathogens, use of diverse isolates in screening of
resistance in germplasm of crops, little work on weeds, nematodes and viruses as well as
development of IPM packages for major diseases. It may be partially due to shortage of
specialists in these areas.
Recommendations
The plant protection programme has to work in close collaboration with National Plant
Protection Organization (NPPO) and quarantine which is part of NAREI since 2010.
Close linkages are needed with other plant protection laboratories in Guyana and abroad
especially in the fields of proper identification of causal agents, keeping the diverse
cultures and bio control agents.
The work on IPM of major diseases, insect pests and weeds has to be worked out and
tested for minimizing losses in crops in different agro ecological regions of Guyana.
The list of diseases, pathogens identified, insect pests, and nematodes need to be
compiled for different crops and may be published in the form of research bulletin from
NAREI.
The work on identification of resistant genotypes and varieties in different crops to major
diseases has to be initiated keeping in view of easy adoption of resistant cultivars by
farmers for disease and insect management and minimizing use of pesticides.
The focus of the programme may be on its mandate rather diverting on other fields like
micro propagation etc.
The human resources (Plant Pathologist, Entomologist, nematologist and weed scientist)
need to be strengthened on priority along with environmentally control grass houses for
high quality research
The plant protection scientists need to collaborate with crop improvement and extension
programmes.
The work on bio control may be strengthened to avoid excess use of pesticides and
residue in crops.
The web site of NAREI may be used for forewarning of any outbreak and education of
farmers related to diagnosis and management diseases and insect pests besides regular
field visits and training programme.
4. National Plant Protection Organization (NPPO) and Plant Quarantine
NPPO has been a part of NAREI since 2010-11. It is dealing with the quarantine issues of plants
and plant products related to trade. It is responsible for keeping vigil and checking the entry of
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24. potentially damaging exotic pests of crops in Guyana. Guyana has passed a new plant protection
act in 2011. Besides issuing import permits it also deals with surveys and surveillance of pests,
farm certification and verification for insect pests and diseases of importance in international
trade, prepare document on pest risk analysis (PRA), and conducts training programmes.
Projects/ Activities:
1. Inspections of products for facilitation of international trade and treatment service
2. Quarantine treatment
3. Surveys and Surveillance: Carambola Fruit Fly (CFF), Pink Hibiscus Mealybug
(PHMB), Papaya Mealybug (Paracoccus marginatus), Giant African Snail
4. Surveys and surveillance of any exotic pests (Papaya mealy bug, Giant African
snail, Mango seed weevil, Coffee berry borer, Coffee rust, Mediterranean fruit fly,
Carambola fruit fly, Pink mealy bug and Anastrepha species of fruit fly
5. Nursery Inspection
6. Farm certification and verification
7. Surveillance of illegal imports
8. Public Consultations
9. Pest risk analysis (PRA)
10. Carambola fruit fly control and eradication programme
11. Pest diagnosis, advisory and laboratory services
12. Training
13. Standards and Regulations Enforcement: International Standard on Sanitary and
Phytosanitary Measures (ISPM), Plant Protection Act and Regulations
Enforcement
Major achievements
The major achievements are in the field of production and distribution of ant bait packets
in the affected areas for the management of ants, survey, diagnosis, epidemiology,
management and sensitization of farmers to black Sigatoka disease of banana and
plantain.
Limitations
The major limitation of programme is to diagnose the causal agents of diseases up to
species level, detection of diversity in pathogens, use of diverse isolates in screening of
resistance in germplasm of crops, little work on weeds, nematodes and viruses as well as
development of IPM packages for major diseases. It may be partially due to shortage of
specialists in these areas.
Recommendations
The plant protection programme has to work in close collaboration with National Plant
Protection Organization (NPPO) and quarantine which is part of NAREI since 2010.
Close linkages are needed with other plant protection laboratories in Guyana and abroad
20
25. especially in the fields of proper identification of causal agents, keeping the diverse
cultures and bio control agents.
The post entry quarantine facilities and testing under controlled conditions for new pests
if any need to be established to facilitate movement of new germplasm of plantation, root
and tuber and other crops in Guyana keeping in view of dearth of germplasm enrichment.
The latest facilities for detection of viruses, and hidden insects and nematodes in seed
need to be created.
The NAPPO has do major role of market intelligence also to promote export of agri-
commodities and reduce import.
5. Resource Management (Soils, water management, Farm mechanization
and agronomy)
The programme is having one scientist who is head of the programme also. It has a good team of
technical officers and lab workers. It is one of the major and well equipped programme. It is
collaborating with agronomy programme and has good poly house and net house strictures
besides chemical analysis laboratory.
Projects undertaken
1. The effects of micro-nutrients on papaw production
2. Soil and land use surveys: Santa Fe Holdings, Rupununi Savannahs of Guyana.
3. To evaluate the suitability of the survey area for crop production.
4. Investigating the effectiveness of locally available liming material
5. The production of cassava on rehabilitated mine spoils using acacia cuttings as mulch
6. Community crop production on mine spoils in north East Kara – Kara Linden
7. Agricultural Diversification in five villages of Region 8, Guyana.
8. Determining the yield potential of Ghana Red Pigeon pea using Rhizobia inoculation on
clay soils on the coast of Guyana.
9. Improved irrigated vegetable production
10. Production of vegetables under shaded conditions
11. Protected vegetable seedling production
12. The production of pineapple on rehabilitated mine spoils using acacia cuttings as mulch
13. The production of pumpkin on rehabilitated mine spoils using acacia cuttings as mulch
14. The effects of micronutrients on all year cherry production
15. Re vegetation of mined out areas in northeast Kara – Kara and its environs
16. Regularizing land inherited by NAREI
17. Investigating the effectiveness of locally available liming material
Services
The chemical analysis of soil samples, keeping the record of sample analysis, agro
meteorological data recording and production of Rhizobium culture are undertaken.
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26. Major achievements
The major achievements of the programme during the period of assessment were
demonstration of commercial cultivation of vegetables like cabbage, cauliflower, tomato
etc under shed conditions and testing of new crops like potato, onion, carrots, garlic,
pigeonpea, millets, winged bean etc.
Limitations
The shortage of scientists.
Lack of coordination between crop improvement, vegetables sections and suitable
germplasm of crops like food legumes, garlic, onion, carrots etc. in the programme.
No expertise for farm mechanization in the programme.
Focus on other activities than defined one in the field of soils, too many and diverse
projects in spite of lack of scientific man power.
Poor inter institutional linkages in getting right kind of germplasm of crops and species of
Rhizobium.
Suggestions
The programme may be merged with Agronomy to take care of resource management
work.
The work on testing of new crops may be transferred to Crop Improvement programme.
More focus must be given to research on conservation agriculture, proper management of
nutrients, water, soils acidity and weeds.
The work on protected agriculture is more related to vegetables and may be given to
horticulture programme.
The digital soil map of Guyana may be prepared for further expansion of crop cultivation
in new areas and fetching more investment in agriculture.
The research on cropping system may be undertaken in collaboration with other crop
commodity institutions.
The soil sample analysis may be charged to improve resource generation.
6. Agronomy, Horticulture and Seed technology
The programme has good infrastructure and trained technical manpower but lacking scientific
man power except one scientist who is also the head of the programme. It has been loaded with
most of the crucial responsibilities of looking after the research on vegetables, spices, plantation
and fruit crops, seed production, weed management and nutrient management. The programme
thus struggle with its performance to excel in these area over years. The seed of crops like was
produced, Bora (Long yard), Boulanger, Ochro, Tomato, Pepper, Poi, Soybean, Cowpea, Peanut,
Sorghum, Corn, Pigeon pea, Pumpkin, Water melon and sorrel.
Projects:
1. The efficacy of using Monty‟s plant food on the yields of cabbage.
2. Sweet potato weevil (Cylas formacarius) management
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27. 3. Evaluation of agronomic parameters of the West Indian red hot pepper under shaded and
open field cultivation using different fertilizer regimes.
4. Evaluation of pineapple stems cuttings for rapid multiplication of “seed” suckers.
5. The effects of micro nutrients on all year production of Papaya
6. Yield and yield component inter relationships among 12 drought tolerant accessions of
cassava on marginal soils.
7. Evaluation of a fertilizer regime for pineapple.
8. Response of established coconut palms (varieties: dwarf and tall) to fertilizer regimes.
9. Evaluation of the yield of two varieties of Okra: Clemson Spineless and Emerald Green.
10. Seed purification and multiplication of legumes and solanaceous crops
11. Evaluation of agronomic parameters of the West Indian red hot pepper under shaded and
open field cultivation using different fertilizer regimes
12. Corn, Soybean and Red beans seeds multiplication in Region 6
13. Coconut revitalization
14. Development of spices in Guyana
15. Assessing the production of Red Ball Cabbage using organic and inorganic Fertilizer.
16. Deep placement of urea in pepper
17. On-Farm evaluation to assess the effectiveness of the use of Pheromone to manage the
Sweet potato weevil
18. The efficacy of using Monty‟s plant food on the production potential of tomatoes
19. The effects of different rates of fertilizers on the yields of Red Cabbage
20. Varietal Evaluation of Pepper, tomato, boulanger
21. Evaluation of root cutting method for rapid multiplication of pineapple “seed” suckers
22. Seed purification and multiplication of legumes and solanaceous crops
23. Evaluation of agronomic parameters of the West Indian red hot pepper under shaded and
open field cultivation using different fertilizer regimes
24. Response of established coconut palms (varieties: dwarf and tall) to fertilizer Regimes
Major achievements
1. The programme has provided minimum amount of seed of vegetables and distributed to
the farmers.
2. Good work has been done in promotion of spices like ginger, turmeric and black pepper.
3. The technology for cultivation of vegetables like tomato, cabbage and hot pepper under
shed has helped the farmers to go for commercial cultivation.
Limitations
The seed production, processing and distribution remained at preliminary level.
The weed, nutrient and water management research at low profile.
The linkages were not up to the mark with other programmes.
The improvement of varieties in vegetables, fruits and plantation crops remained major
failure.
The threshing of seed and seed processing plants could not be established for dealing
with multi crops.
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28. The storage facilities for seed are not up to the standard.
Suggestions
The agronomic research may be clubbed with resource management programme for
better coordination and programme may concentrate more on very important vegetable,
plantation, spices, fruit crops and seed production.
The art of state technology facilities for seed threshing, drying, testing, packing and
storage may be developed keeping in view of new seed act and lack of private sector in
Guyana to promote locally adapted improved varieties.
The seed production of new varieties may be under take through private public
partnership for mutual benefits and meeting the demand of seed in Guyana.
The breeding of vegetables, fruits may be initiated along with new germplasm
introduction and testing.
The seed testing and certification facilities need to be created to meet the global
standards.
7. Extension programme
The major activities of the extension programme since it became a part of NAREI were making
data base of farmers, farmers‟ diagnostic clinic, farm visits, training to farmers, meeting,
management of Acoushi ants and surveillance of black Sigatoka disease of banana, The
programme is reasonably equipped with kind and numbers of transport vehicles needed. The
communication is made to the farmers through mobile, e mail and wireless system. The newer
technologies are shown through demonstration plots, fairs and expositions.
Major achievements
1. The programme conducted training of farmers on modern crop production technologies.
2. Acoushi ant management was done though ant baits.
3. The spice production was promoted and plants were distributed in region 1.
4. The visitors in nurseries were demonstrated the techniques of budding and grafting of
horticultural plants.
5. A total of almost one hundred thousand plants of improved varieties were sold from nine
locations of nurseries to the farmers.
6. The survey of affected farms due to Back Sigatoka disease of Musa spp. was
accomplished.
7. Distribution of pesticides and seeds of corn was done in Region 7 and 9
Limitations
The major limitation of extension programme is lack of tested and improved technologies
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29. for crop production.
The training facilities are not up to mark.
The strength of extension and social scientists is thin keeping in view of national mandate
for extension of nontraditional crops and operation of nurseries, trainings etc.
The webpage of NAREI is not interactive and updated to assist the extension scientists to
gather information and dissemination of technologies.
The interface of extensions staff with researchers, quarantine scientists for two flow of
information is quite limited at NAREI.
The research projects in programme are lacking.
Suggestions
The extension programme has to interact more with researchers and quarantine
programme for getting the new information, collaborative activities and providing
feedback of stakeholders. The researchers have to modify and plan their project activities
based on the feedback of extension staff for better adoption of technology generated at
end of day.
The extension scientists need to initiate research on socio economic areas and see the
impact of new technologies at farmers‟ fields, conduct field demonstrations of new
technology and help in production and distribution of new seed and planting material of
improved varieties.
The programme has to coordinate trainings, field days, seed days etc to farmers and
interact with other players related to food processing and marketing for promoting
production of nontraditional crops.
The activities of extension programme may be modified keeping in view of new structure
of NAREI for greater coordination.
The web page of NAREI may be utilized effectively for dissemination of technologies
besides use of other IT tools (SMS, mobile calls, TV, radio, electronic print media etc.).
The programme may keep statistical data base on nontraditional crops and help to
identify production areas and export markets in collaboration with researchers and plant
quarantine programme.
The progressive farmers may be used for strengthening seed production of new varieties
in Private Public Partnership mode.
The training facilities such as good auditorium, farmers‟ hostel, museum etc. may be
created at NAREI.
8. National Mangrove Management Action Plan
It was initiated during 2012 with the assistance of EU. Since then it helped in improving the
mangrove vegetation and helped in preventing seas water damage to agriculture.
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30. 9. Bio fuel research
The bio fuel or bio energy programme is looking for use of ethanol produced as bio product of
sugar industry for mixing its certain amount in commercial petrol for running the vehicles etc.
Many countries are now a day using 5-10% bio ethanol in the commercial petrol.
Major Achievements
The installation and operation of the bio ethanol plant at was done at Albion Estate,
Berbice. Thirty-nine trainees from fifteen agencies/ institutions across Guyana were
trained at the bio ethanol plant.
The training was targeted to provide basic knowledge and functioning of the main
components of plant, operations, quality control, plant maintenance and safety guidelines.
The Agro-Energy Policy was drafted and submitted to Minister of Agriculture.
Limitations
The experimental vehicles for testing the efficacy of such fuel as well as storage facilities
are limited.
Suggestions
The limitations need to be resolved art an early date to make the concept working on
commercial scale and reducing the import bill of fossil fuel.
10. Post Harvest and Agro processing
The work was done at NAREI during 2009 only. The projects taken were
1. The production of composite flours for use in the food industry
2. The production of rice based products
3. The utilization of cassava as an ingredient in poultry feed
4. Post harvest studies on the control of internal browning in Montserrat pineapples
The report of programme is not available after 2009.
11. Climate Change and Agricultural Adaptation Unit
The work was done at NAREI during 2009 only. The major projects taken were as follows:
1. Establishment of hydroponics facility
2. Micro irrigation demonstration
3. The report of programme is not available after 2009
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31. 12. Farm operations service unit, Research Fields
The farm operations service unit is helping the research programmes in conduct of field
experiments, harvesting, threshing and processing of experimental material, seed and
horticultural nurseries. It is custodian of all tractors, farm equipments, field workers, implements
etc. as well as a small maintenance unit. It is headed by HR manager and supported by a Farm
Manager.
Major Achievements
The unit has done good work in assisting the operations in the new research farm
(Commercial farm) of NAREI thus helped in conduct of experiments and seed
production.
The work at NAREI nursery is supported well.
Limitations
The unit is not properly equipped in terms of new tillage and farm operation implements,
and takes time to arrange for field operations.
The threshing, drying and storage facilities of crop produce are not satisfactory.
The five days in a week working is sometimes affecting the field operations.
The irrigation facilities are quite old and unreliable without any backup or spare pump in
case of breakdown to save crop during dry weather.
The planning of research farm is not up to date keeping in view of two rainy season in
coastal region and some fields are prone for water logging without standby arrangements
of drainage
Suggestions
The unit may be provided with latest equipment and implements to help in
experiments related to conservation agriculture, faster operations keeping in view of
narrow time period for field operations, threshers, driers, irrigation units, proper
storage and maintenance unit.
The unit may be headed by a researcher/ engineer and not an unskilled person like
HR manager for proper and timely support to research programmes and scientific
management and skillful operations.
The proper planning, reliable drainage and weed management are to be addressed
urgently to enhance the success rate of field experimentations, seed production and
generation of meaningful data.
The farm manager needs to be properly trained in the needs of operations of different
programmes and interact well with researchers.
13. Estate
The estate section comprised of office, farm, store and residential building including one guest
house. The campus is having sufficient number of wooden houses but these are quite old and
mostly in bad condition. The maximum category of houses is type three with three bed rooms,
one drawing room, kitchen and bathroom and most of these are having ground floor open and
living space on first floor. The houses lack false ply of roof and partitioning walls are not up to
roof thus making the houses difficult to fit A/Cs. The windows and doors lack proper security
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32. arrangements (burglar bars, grills etc.) and houses are without compound wall. The water
supplied in houses is raw and often mixed with dirt and not fit for drinking. The roads and street
lights are not properly maintained. The campus lacks any community recreation facility or staff
club, park etc. The security in the campus is satisfactory. The campus has nice fruit and forest
trees. It is managed by Farm Manager and HR manager.
Major Achievements
1. In spite of difficulties, the campus is hosted scientists, technical and support service staff
of NAREI, GLDA, GSA etc.
2. The water supply is regular most of time with critical breaks few times due to mechanical
failure and breakdown of pipes.
3. The security is satisfactory.
4. The garbage lifting from houses is satisfactory.
Limitations
The institute has to think seriously about the maintenance and occupancy of vacant
houses (About 8 in numbers) and few abundant (un cared) houses.
The water quality is not proper.
The street lights are not proper.
The maintenance of road and passage to houses, water drainage and grass cutting is not
satisfactory.
The campus lacks common staff club facilities.
The guest house is not properly furnished and equipped.
The campus lacks face lifting and general appearance is poor.
Suggestions
The institute may use limitation of maintenance of houses and campus as good
opportunity to resource generation by keeping most of the houses occupied and renting to
sister institutes and government departments.
The roads, drains, street lights, water supply, grass cutting, cleaning etc. need immediate
attention to make the look of campus impressive.
The guest house may be renovated and equipped well.
The houses may be maintained regularly through rate contract.
The estate section need to appoint a staff as In charge of campus (who is inhabitant in
campus) to deal and advise the management of any emergency situation especially during
office hours, weekends and holidays.
The houses need ceiling of roofs to fit A/Cs during present day climate.
The security arrangements in houses (doors and windows) may be fixed.
14. Transport
The transport is mainly consists of double cab pickups with one or two fully covered vehicle.
The fleet is reasonably new and used for visiting research centres and outreach programmes.
Most of the top management personnel (CEO, DCEO) keep one such vehicles for their uses. The
Vehicle in charge is Farm Manager and section is under administration. The researchers have to
put indent a week or more in advance for need of vehicles.
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33. Limitations
The lack of good vehicles (Fully covered x4x4 wd) is a limitation to visit remote
localities like Ebini.
The planning a week advance sometimes difficult for research operations at distant
locations keeping in view of two rainy seasons in coastal region.
The feedback on indents given is poor and it is not sure to get vehicles on same day or
next day to researchers.
The vehicles are centralized.
Suggestions
1. Keeping in view of weather, urgency and needs of research experiments, the vehicles
may be attached to each programme for their uses.
2. The feedback may be improved and indenter may be given information about vehicle
number and driver immediately after indenting to plan the journey properly.
3. The provision of hiring of vehicles from a private agency having rate contract with
NAREI may be permitted in projects in case of non availability of NAREI vehicles at a
given day.
4. Proper arrangements of vehicle may be made every day to visit commercial farm
(Research Farm) of NAREI for researchers and technical officers.
5. Likewise combined trip of a vehicle to town may be arranged every day on specified
times for official work of staff.
6. The proper vehicles (Fully covered, 4x4 WD, minibus) may be purchase after disposing
old vehicles to ease journeys outside town.
7. Keeping in view of lack of public transport in Guyana, NAREI may think of providing
shuttle service (minibus) for school going children and families to town on reasonable
fare every day.
15. Store
The store is managed by finance section and centralized for the needs of office, field and estate.
It also keeps lots of old items lying over years in stores.
Limitations
The inventory of items of store is not computerized and it is not known properly to
indenters what items and quantity are available in store. The advance purchase of field
items is not in concurrence with researchers and sometimes items like pesticides,
fertilizers and chemicals are expired in the store and remain unused.
The internal auditing of store items is not known to reviewer.
The old unserviceable items are lying in stores over years and occupying space.
Suggestions
The store items related to research may be purchased according to indents received by
researchers and farm in charge at least 3 months in advance.
The inventory may be computerized and record keeping and updating may be computer
based.
The old items may be disposed off at an early date.
The auditing of store items may be done on regular intervals to keep supply up to date,
29
34. promote bulk purchase and avoid expiry of chemicals.
16. Finance
The programme is running in a professional manner with good satisfaction to the management
and staff of NAREI. The processing of bills is quite fast and staff of courteous to the staff in
dealing and understanding the needs. The financial situation according to CEO of NAREI
remained comfortable during the review. More than 80% of grants were met out of government
contribution. The other sources of fetching money were from externally funded projects, grant
from foreign sources, sale of plants and produce, rents etc. the total funds received at NAREI
during 2012 financial year were G$606,743,907. More 56% of funds went towards salaries of
staff, 5% in transport, 3% on fuel, 4.5% on equipment and material, 4% on utility, and 9% on
depreciation besides minor per cent of it on rental and maintenance of buildings and
infrastructure, training and old age pension.
Limitations:
The flow of funds is not smooth over time and sometimes there is lack of funds which affects the
research activities as reported by scientists as well as there are delays in getting the purchase for
research items. The financial power to researchers, heads of departments and project leaders is
nil and it is centralized in nature.
Suggestions
More externally funded projects are needed to cope up with shortage of funds for
research activities.
The heads of departments and project leaders may be delegated powers for sanction
of minimum amount ($5000-10000) to go for urgent purchase of items needed in
research projects.
Part of utility and salary of field workers and contact jobs may be paid from external
grant proposed to be generated through externally funded projects.
The internal revenue may be generated more through consultancies, charging the cost
of services and analysis, seed sale, sale of plants, renting of facilities like conference
centre and vacant houses.
Human Resources, career advancement, staff welfare
The institute has one deputy CEO and HR manager in this section and meant to efficiently utilize
human resources as well as to develop these and look for the welfare of staff. The service
conditions of NAREI and Guyana are based on annual contracts of staff and it is applicable for
scientists also.
Limitations
The annual contract of key personnel like scientists, technical officers etc is hindering to built up
30
35. the teams for carrying out research on medium to long term basis. The up gradation of
qualifications and skills are not up to the mark due to lack of institutional support. The merit and
reward system is not practiced and there are no assessment and promotion schemes applicable. It
is therefore a hindrance in keeping the talented staff in the place of their working for long. The
welfare services like free medical, transport to school going children of staff in campus,
recreational facilities canteen services, leave travel benefits, education allowance to children of
staff and internet facilities for scientists are lacking.
Suggestions
Keeping in view of building strong research and extension teams, the staff engaged in
research, extension and plant quarantine may be kept on long contracts (5-10 years). The
promotion to next higher grade and post may be given through career advancement
scheme and assessing the achievements of such staff.
The institute may think of generating revenue through its own resources and use part of it
for welfare activities of staff.
More autonomy may be given to NAREI for development of human resources.
The scientific and technical staff may be deputed to upgrade their qualification on regular
basis.
The five yearly reward and assessment system may be introduced for staff at NAREI.
17. IT, Web page, reprographic and Library facilities
The use of computers and information technology is must in present day offices and research
organizations for greater efficiency and ease. NAREI has taken wise steps in this direction and
good to see a very competent full time IT officer at NAREI. The facilities of computer, printer,
scanner and internet are reasonably good. However it is fast evolving field and facilities need to
be upgraded on regular basis.
Major Achievements
The researchers, extension and quarantine scientists, management, administrative and
financial services are well equipped with computers and printers. All have access to
internet facilities (both LAN and WIFI).
The internet and WI FI facilities are available 7x24 basis at NAREI.
The maintenance of computers and software up gradation is very good.
The IT officer is most prompt and available on time of urgency and needs to help
scientists and staff.
Limitations
The centralized printing, scanning, reprographic, photocopying and internet use facilities
are lacking to staff.
Some desk top computers are old.
The purchase of supply of ink and cartridges is not centralized and takes time.
The WI FI range is limited,
Suggestions
The internet speed and slots are limited and system needs up gradation.
31
36. The centralized facilities need to be created for printing, photocopying, scanning, binding
etc.
The old computers and printers need to be replaced with new ones.
The computers need to be connected with centralized printer for bulk printing.
The section need to work in close collaboration with Technical cell of CEO for keeping
the e reports, digital photo library, e journals and scanned records.
The library needs to be attached with internet and may be computerized for meeting the
needs of e journals, down loading of required research materials, abstracting journals and
keeping digital copies of old research reports which are at the verge of decay.
Out stations: Regional Research Centres
Kairuni
Kairuni Research Centre is located on the Linden /Soesdyke Highway. It has Amerindian
population around with orange and white soils in farm area. The station serves as excellent
avocado germplasm bank besides other fruit trees like citrus and soursop, cassava and sweet
pepper germplasm. This centre serves as one of the nursery also for supply of seed materials, bud
sticks and scions for the purpose of the production of budded and grafted plants.
Major achievements
The centre has nicely maintained the orchards of different varieties of fruit crops.
It served as good site for testing of varieties of cassava and sweet potato.
Limitations
The proper infrastructure and facilities are lacking for making this centre as an important
hub for improved agriculture technologies, testing of technologies, improved orchard
model and source for production of seed and planting material.
The centre lacks proper laboratory, irrigation, farm implements and accommodation.
Suggestions
The station may be provided more resources for research, farm management, testing of
technologies, plant propagation, assured irrigation, power and buildings.
The station may act as training centre to farmers of the region as well as site for fruit tree
and root and tuber crop germplasm conservation and seed production.
Ebini Research Centre
It is situated at Ebini in Savannah. It maintains the germplasm of fruit trees besides conducting
trials of corn, soybean, beans etc. It has only one rainy season. The station served good site for
testing of varieties of field crops.
32
37. Major achievements
1. Quality data generated on testing of varieties of field crops.
2. Conservation of germplasm of crops.
3. Seed production
4. Good agronomic research.
Limitations
Approach road is a problem.
Assured irrigation facilities, good farm equipment, laboratory and buildings are lacking at
present although good progress is being made in recent time.
Availability of scientists at research centre.
Suggestions
The station may work as good site for testing of technologies meant for savannah and
attract good investment in region.
The centre has potential of working as quality seed production site.
It can work as conservation centre for germplasm of crops and horticultural trees.
Can serve as training centre for farmers for latest seed of varieties and new crop
production technologies.
St. Ignatius
It serves as germplasm conservation centre for coconut and other fruit trees with potential to
develop as training centre o farmers.
Horticultural Nurseries
Nine plant nurseries are located in Guyana in region 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 9 including one at
NAREI, Mon Repos. These are Mon Repos, Pouderoyen, Timehri, Fort Wellington, Benab,
Charity, Bartica, St. Ignatius and Hosororo. These nurseries prepare the seedlings of soursop,
cherries, guava, budding of Citrus fruits (Orange, tangerine, budded lemon, limes), grafting of
avocado and mango, seeds of brinjal, hot pepper and plants of ornamentals. These nurseries also
conduct demonstrations to visitors and school children related to procedure involve in the
budding and grafting of plants. The nurseries have mother stocks, sowing bins, pots, plastic bags,
manure houses, shade houses, net houses, cemented flours, transplanting area, hardening area,
and counter for sale. The costs of seedlings and plant varieties vary from G$10-500 depending
on type of plant.
Achievements
The nurseries served as major supply source for horticultural tree saplings and lauded
well by public.
33
38. The contributions helped the farmers and rural and urban population to plant fruit and
vegetables in the land around the house and in fields and earn more.
It helped to improve the quality of fruit trees as well introduction of new fruits in newer
areas.
It generation good revenue also.
Limitations
The modern infrastructure in scientific multiplication of fruit trees is lacking at most of
the nurseries, including trained human resources.
The lack of breeding efforts in case of vegetables and fruit crops affected the score of
these nurseries to progressive farmers.
The linkages for germplasm enrichment in fruit crops are quite poor.
There is tendency of multiplying the seedlings of easy crops like citrus and often efforts
to supply the seedling of crops needing special grafting etc. are scanty.
The ornamental trees are not properly exploited for sale at these nurseries.
Suggestions
Keeping in view of popular and high demand of seedlings of improved and high quality
fruits and vegetables, the nurseries need to be looked well in terms of infrastructure,
human, genetic resources, and facilities.
The marketing of these seedlings may be done in a professional ways using IT tools,
web page of NAREI, use of mobile.
The feedback of stakeholders may be used to further improve the services.
The nurseries may serve as valuable sites for germplasm conservation and
multiplication.
The breeding and germplasm efforts in vegetable and fruit crops need to be initiated.
The nurseries may develop model horticulture fields for farmers and conduct training to
unemployed youths in establishing seedlings.
The ornamentals (varieties of Hibiscus, roses) and other flowers which may grow well in
Guyana for commercial exploitation may be multiplied.
34
39. Annexure I A
NATIONAL AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH & EXTENSTION INSTITUTE,
MON REPOS, GUYANA
FORMAT FOR REVIEW OF PROGRAMMES (2009-2013)
1. Research programme for the period under review (year-wise), ongoing and as envisaged in the
SRDA, 2008-2012.
2. Major achievements of programme in research.
3. Production, process, technologies developed by the programme with credited scientists.
4. Infrastructure and physical facilities planned and developed during the period (2008-12) under
review commensurate with the mandate.
5. Human resource development efforts for different categories of staff.
6. Budget and Finance: Allocations to various heads be given along with the details and budget
for the years covering the review period (2008-12) along with the status report on resource
generation and project-based budgeting implementation.
7. Collaboration with others
a. Local institutions in the area, (educational, research and infrastructural facilities)
b. National institutes and agricultural universities
c. International institutions
d. Extension and development agencies, Research-Extension linkages. Comment on the
usefulness of extension activities and such collaboration and suggestions for further
improvement.
8. Enlist the publications made during the last five years. Also indicate the circulation status of
such publications and the benefits accrued from them.
9. Human Resource of the programme
36
40. Annexure IB.
Format for evaluation of research project after evaluation
S.
No.
Criteria Methodology
1 Achievements against
approved and stipulated
outputs under
project
Qualitative and quantitative assessment of objectives and
stipulated outputs under the project will be carried out
Activity Input /Projected Output/ Output Achieved
Extent to which standard design methodology,
experimental
designs, test procedures, analytical methods followed
Does the data justify the conclusions?
Innovativeness and creating of new knowledge
Additional outputs over those stipulated under the project
Creation of linkages for commercialization of technology
developed under the project
Is scientific input commensurate to output (manpower,
Financial input and time duration)?
2 Publication/awards Assessment will be done in respect of: Research papers;
Reports/Manuals; Working and Concept Papers; Books /Book
Chapters/Bulletins. Quality of publication (s) and Awards
/Scientific recognitions received
3 Additional facilities created Facilities created in terms of laboratory. Research set-up,
instrumentation etc. during the project.
4 Human Resource
Development
(Scientific and Technical)
Scientists trained in different areas
5 Revenue generated under
the project/ avenues created
for revenue generation
Resources and revenues generated
6 Product/ Process/
Technology/IPR
/commercial value of the
Technology developed
Details to be provided on
a. Products
b. Process
c. Technology
d. IPR
e. Registration of the varieties
7 Quality of available
documents of the project
duly authenticated
Research Project Files, Data, Reports etc.
8 Timelines of execution of
the project
Marks will be deducted if extension sought over the approved
project duration beyond recorded and officially granted
extension with recorded reasons
(Adopted from source: ICAR. 2012. Proformae and guidelines for research project proposal,
monitoring and evaluation. ICAR New Delhi. Pp. 61)
37
41. Annexure II
Status of Institutional Training
S.
No.
Item Indicators
A. Planning
1 Schedule of training programmes Was it done well in advance with due
planning?
2 Job analysis related to the participants Were participants asked as to what they
are doing and what their duties are?
3 Analysis of Trainees on onset of training Was the knowledge test of trainees
conducted before the commencement of
the course?
4 Assessment of needs of training Based on the trainees and job
analysis, were the training needs assessed?
B. Preparation
5 Organization of content (course content and
syllabus)
Were the course content and the syllabus
prepared and the Speakers /trainers
identified?
6 Lesson plan Was it prepared and adhered to? Has it
been discussed and approved?
C. Implementation of training
7 Conduct of training Were audio-visual aids used in the
conduct of training?
8 Mid-review Was mid-review done for any
modification?
D. Training evaluation
9 Job improvement plan Was job improvement plan for trainees
devised?
10 Review and revision of training Were training programmes revised based
on the post-training feedback?
11 Monitoring and evaluation syllabus (Post-
training contact)
Has any mechanism /methodology
developed for post-training contact with
trainees. If so, how it is made use of?
38
42. Annexure III
Details of Training Programmes Conducted
Training programme conducted vs targets fixed (discipline-wise)
for extension functionaries (last 5 years)
SI
No.
Discipline I (C/P)* II(C/P)* III(C/P)* IV(C/P)* V(C/P)* Total(C/P)*
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
Total
Training programme conducted for farmers‟ farm women (last 5 years)
SI
No.
Discipline I(C/P)* II(C/P)* III(C/P)* IV(C/P)* V(C/P)* Total(C/P)*
Total
Note: * C, No. of Courses; P, No. of participants
44. Annexure V
Front-line demonstrations
Condition: Rainfed/I irrigated
Sl.
No.
Crop Variety No. of
farmers
Area
(Ha)
Average
yield
Local
check
Av.
CR
Improved
variety
CR
Increase
CR
Net
loss
(Rs)
Effective
gain
(Rs)
Notes: C = Cost ($)/ha; R = Returns ($)/ha; The results of front-line demonstrations may be indicated year-wise.
Annexure VI
Broad-basing of Front-line Extension (last 5 years)
(Numbers)
S.
No.
Item I Year I Year II Year III Year IV Year V Total
1 Planting material produced and distributed
2 New crops and varieties introduced (ha)
3 Trees introduced (No.)
4 Wasteland development plan prepared
5 Watershed development
6 Consultancy on soil analysis, disease,
insect pests and topographic survey
7 Consultancy on land-use planning and
cropping patterns
8 Improved hand tools and implements
introduced
13 Mangrove restoration demonstrations
14 Any other
40
45. Annexure VII
Impact of NAREI and Research Stations in Terms of Agricultural Productivity, Socio-
economic Conditions and Employment Generation during past five years in the Adopted
Villages
S.
No.
Item Unit Prior to adoption
of NAREI,
Station (2008)
Post adoption
activities
(2013)
1 Change in cropping pattern %
2 Change in productivity of
(a) cereal crops
(b) pulses
(c) oilseeds
(d) overall
Kg/ha
3 Use of HYV (high-yielding
varieties)
%
4 Use of fertilizers (NPK) (nutrient) Kg/ha
5 Use of FYM and other biofertilizers Kg/ha
6 Tractor/machinery Nos.
7 Change in economic indicators (in
adopted villages)
Nos.
a. Net returns/ha/yr
(by crop/enterprise)
$.
Annexure VIII
Extension Activities Undertaken (Last 5 years) (Numbers)
SI No. Activity I Year II Year III Year IV Year V Year Total
1. Field Days
2. Agril. Exhibition
3. Farmers' Fairs
4. Radio Talk
5. TV show
6. Film show
7. Training materials produced
(a) Pamphlets
(b) Video-cassette
(c) Slides
8. Farm Science Club organized
9. Ladies farmers‟ meetings organized
10. Extension Training meetings organized
11. Any other
41
46. Annexure IX
Status of Research - Extension Linkages at the District Level
• What kind of mechanism exists for local co-ordination of the frontline
extension demonstration between the extension programme and the regional administration
• What is the frequency of Local Management Committee/Scientists
Advisory Committee Meeting for extension during the last 5 years.
• No. of monthly workshops organized
• Frequency and no. of staff participated in seminars at regional and national levels.
• Whether the local NGOs are involved in extension Programmes
• Whether the local Ladies farmers club or Farm Science clubs are promoted
and have become visible in their activities.
• A brief about the extent of contribution of the officials of various line departments
and joint programmes undertaken.
Annexure X
Impact of NAREI and research centres on farming population
(Questions given below may be administered to selected five farmers from
the adopted villages and another five from non-adopted villages and
appended with the report)
1. Name and address of farmers
2. Enterprises being practiced
3. Enlist improved technologies being adopted under different enterprises at SI No. 2 above
4. When, were these improved technologies received by you, and from where?
5. Enlist 5 latest technologies which have been received from the NAREI in your village
and furnish information on the following.
SI
No.
Name of
technology
Extent of adoption in % (approx) Reasons for formal
adoption
6. What should be the approach of extension for training and better adoption of technologies in
light of your experience at SI No.5.
7. Do you know the activities of extension programme of NAREI?
8. If yes, what are those activities?
9. Do you think that roles/
activities of extension need some
change? Yes/No
10. If yes, what are your suggestions?
11. Any other comments on the extension services of NAREI
42
