Towards biotech excellence in Montenegro
The Biotechnical Faculty (BTF) in Podgorica is Montenegro's biggest agricultural research institute. In addition to conducting research, the BTF provides technical recommendations to both the government and citizen farmers. The project 'Fostering a science-based development of a sustainable Montenegrin agriculture' (AGRISCIMONT) was established to enhance various activities at the BTF through technical and human capacity building and by developing its research strategy. AGRISCIMONT partnered the BTF with five leading European research organisations in the field of agriculture and life sciences. Over the duration of the 3-year project, 28 researchers from the BTF spent 54 weeks at these institutions. Similarly, 11 researchers from partner institutions spent 15 weeks at the BTF. AGRISCIMONT provided the BTF with 35 different pieces of equipment and enabled the institute to hire three new experienced researchers. In addition, through the project, the BTF developed a long-term research strategy for 2014 to 2020. Lastly, BTF hosted various workshops, training sessions and workshops over the course of AGRISCIMONT. This project has raised the standard of agricultural research in Montenegro and ensured the BTF's place as the country's foremost agricultural institute.
Keywords
Agricultural research, Montenegro, biotechnical, agriculture
