Conveners
SSC 2026 Opening & Keynote speaker
- Christophe Tarragon (I AGRO)
- Eve Solari (I AGRO - ELSA)
- Nicolas Roux (CGIAR)
Description
1/ Welcome to day 2 and SSC
2/ ELLS anniversary - celebrating our journey
3/ KEYNOTE SPEAKER : Seeds, Science and Solidarity: Four Decades of International Cooperation for the Future of Agri-Food Systems
Abstract
Addressing the challenges facing agri-food systems requires more than scientific excellence: it calls for international cooperation, the conservation and sustainable use of plant genetic resources, and a new generation of scientists committed to working across disciplines and continents.
Drawing on four decades of international experience and collaboration with research institutions and universities across Europe and beyond, this keynote will explore the strategic role of international genebanks in safeguarding agricultural biodiversity and making plant genetic resources available for research, breeding and resilient food systems. It will highlight the importance of Africa-Europe scientific partnerships, including opportunities for strengthening collaboration between France and the CGIAR.
Looking ahead, the presentation will reflect on the role of students and early-career researchers in shaping the future of international agricultural research, highlighting the International Society for Horticultural Science (ISHS) and its Young Minds initiative as opportunities to foster scientific exchange, networking and professional development.
The central message is that the future of agri-food systems depends on connecting genetic diversity, international scientific cooperation and the next generation of researchers.
4/ Welcome and official opening of the SSC 2026
5/ Brief introduction and transition to SSC programme