Stirling experts to help develop Indonesian aquaculture

Experts from the University of Stirling will provide vital support to tackle major challenges within the Indonesian aquaculture industry as part of a new strategic collaboration.

Professor Herve Migaud said the new collaboration with the Indonesian Government is a "hugely exciting venture".

The University’s world-renowned Institute of Aquaculture will research key issues and help train students and professionals as it supports the Indonesian Government in its long-term development of the sector, specifically a sustainable expansion of locally produced seafood.

The announcement follows the signing of a formal memorandum of understanding between a University delegation – led by Director of International and Recruitment, Stuart Shorthouse, and Institute of Aquaculture Director, Professor Herve Migaud - and the Indonesian Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries.

Stuart Shorthouse, Director of International and Recruitment, said he was "very pleased" that the University of Stirling was extending its collaboration with Indonesia.

The Institute has established the link with the support of Ainsley Mann, of GlobalScot, and Jakarta-based consultant Kirk Evans.

The Institute will help research a number of areas, including: sustainable aqua feeds, health management of aquatic organisms, protection of the environment, and breeding and genetic improvement.

Professor Herve Migaud, Acting Director of the Institute of Aquaculture, said: “The prospect of supporting the world’s second largest aquaculture producer, including plants, in tackling key challenges of food security, capacity building and training in Indonesia is a hugely exciting venture. We are delighted to be able to bring the knowledge and expertise of Scotland to Indonesia supporting the development of innovative solutions towards a sustainable intensification of aquaculture are key priorities.”

Collaboration

The agreement follows a series of discussions between Stirling and the Indonesian Government over the past year. During their latest trip, Professor Migaud and Mr Shorthouse met with the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, as well as the directorates for Aquaculture (AquaFeed) and Education to discuss the potential support.

Mr Shorthouse said: “As a global university, Stirling has a strong track record of developing mutually beneficial, innovative and productive partnerships with institutions and organisations across the world. We fully recognise the importance of international collaboration in learning and teaching, student exchanges and research.

“The University has been an active collaborator in teaching and research areas with institutions in Indonesia, and we have been fortunate to welcome some very talented Indonesian students and researchers to our campus as a result of these linkages. We are very pleased to be extending our collaboration with Indonesia through our new partnership with the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries.”

As part of the agreement, Stirling will provide a one-year MSc programme in Sustainable Aquaculture tailored to the needs of the Indonesian industry. It will cover areas directly relevant to the country, including fish husbandry, health control, and food security, safety and quality. A number of sector-specific PhD programmes will also be available.

The Institute of Aquaculture is a global leader with more than 40 years of experience in aquatic animal health and production. It has developed more than 900 alumni, many of whom are now working in aquaculture research, education or industry across the world.