In a joint effort, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), and the Regional Fund for Agricultural Technology (FONTAGRO) held a webinar titled "New Approaches for Data Collection on National Agricultural Research Systems." This virtual event aimed to socialize and promote efficiency in data collection at the national level, emphasizing the importance of ASTI Indicators to strengthen information systems in agricultural research.

During the webinar, the need to increase the frequency and relevance of data collection was highlighted to encourage its adoption and use by countries, without relying exclusively on external resources. Pilot projects were announced that will serve as a basis for extracting key lessons to be shared with other nations, aimed at progressing toward a global round scheduled for 2025.

Presentations were made by recognized experts in the field, including Dr. Hernán Muñoz, Statistical Coordinator of the FAO ASTI program, who provided an introduction to new approaches for producing agricultural science and technology indicators. Dr. Juan Fernando Martínez, Specialist in Science, Technology, and Innovation at IICA, discussed the role of data in the context of the Forum of the Americas for Agricultural Research and Technological Development (FORAGRO), while Dr. Eugenia Saini, Executive Secretary of FONTAGRO, made relevant comments on the topic.

To access the recording of this webinar, click here.

This event represents a significant step in the search for effective tools to strengthen information systems in agricultural research at the national level, with a view to promoting sustainable development in the sector.