NUBB takes over FTRIP leadership to boost innovation in Cambodia’s agro-food industry

NUBB takes over FTRIP leadership to boost innovation in Cambodia’s agro-food industry

The National University of Battambang (NUBB) has officially assumed leadership of the Food Technology, Research and Innovation Platform (FTRIP), marking a significant milestone in Cambodia’s drive to strengthen research and development (R&D) in its food sector.

The transition was formalized during the FTRIP Steering Committee meeting on July 17, paving the way for deeper academic, public, and private sector collaboration to promote innovation in Cambodia’s agro-food industry, according to a statement released on Friday.

FTRIP was developed under the EU-funded CAPFISH-Capture: Post-Harvest Fisheries Project, jointly implemented by the Fisheries Administration of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) and the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO).

Dr. Seetharama Shetty Thombathu, UNIDO’s Chief Technical Advisor, expressed appreciation to the Institute of Technology of Cambodia (ITC) for its stewardship of FTRIP and welcomed NUBB’s new leadership.

“We thank ITC for its exceptional leadership and look forward to continued success under NUBB’s hosting,” he said. “FTRIP has supported fish processing enterprises in addressing food quality, safety and production challenges.”

Since its inception, FTRIP has completed 23 applied research projects valued at over $350,000, with contributions from five higher education institutions (HEIs), 68 faculty members, and 86 students. An additional $150,000 was allocated for seven projects aimed at commercialization.

Among its key achievements, FTRIP has developed training modules on quality, trade, and HACCP—now adopted by Cambodian universities—endorsed the Cambodia Enterprise Innovation Index (CEII), and facilitated the registration of Prahok for Geographical Indication (GI) status. It also supported four universities in establishing intellectual property frameworks.

FTRIP also spearheaded the launch of the Cambodia Packaging Center (CPC) in December 2024, which has since become a full member of the World Packaging Organization (WPO), connecting local enterprises to regional and global expertise.

Sok Khorn, Rector of NUBB, affirmed the university’s full commitment to building on FTRIP’s success.

“We are excited to lead this platform and strengthen its impact across the food sector,” he said. “We will focus on supporting researchers, students, and new funding avenues to develop innovative solutions for Cambodia’s agro-food challenges.”

Established in 2007, NUBB is recognized for its academic excellence and contribution to socio-economic development, particularly in northwestern Cambodia. With its growing national and international reputation, the university is well-positioned to expand FTRIP’s work beyond fisheries into wider food production systems.

Speaking at the handover ceremony, Dr. Hul Seingheng, Undersecretary of State at the Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology and Innovation (MISTI), underscored the importance of sustainable financing and cooperation to address pressing food sector needs.

“To ensure sustainability, FTRIP members must support financial independence and partnership,” he stated. “These are key to solving agro-food challenges, ensuring food safety, and boosting competitiveness, particularly in EU markets.”

Dr. Khov Kuong, Deputy Director General of the Fisheries Administration, echoed this sentiment. “FTRIP plays a critical role in shaping policy and advancing the post-harvest fisheries sector,” he said. “I am confident that NUBB’s leadership will further enhance Cambodia’s ability to bring new technologies and added value to its fisheries and broader agro-food products.”

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