Purdue partnership in Peru receives funding for next phase
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A Purdue University institute in Peru has received funding for its next phase of projects.
The Arequipa Nexus Institute for Food, Energy, Water and the Environment was created in March 2018 as a collaboration between Purdue and the Universidad Nacional de San Agustín to focus on sustainability in the Peruvian city of Arequipa.
In its first two phases, the institute studied natural resources, food and agriculture, technology, teaching and sustainable design, community engagement, and administration. The work conducted by more than 170 faculty and staff, 38 postdoctoral candidates and over 50 graduate and undergraduate students produced 51 scientific journal articles and more than 100 videos and webinars.
The institute’s focus in its third phase will center on building knowledge and capacity to address challenges in the Colca Valley, according to Purdue. Projects include providing support for organic food production, improving the quality of local alpaca fiber, creating tourism plans and designing renewable energy systems.
“We are thrilled to continue this important collaboration and provide support that will help UNSA’s faculty address critical environmental challenges while also supporting communities with the greatest needs,” Arequipa Nexus Institute Co-Director Lori Hoagland said in a news release.
Projects will draw from resources within Purdue’s College of Agriculture, College of Education, College of Health and Human Sciences and College of Liberal Arts as well as the Purdue Polytechnic Institute.
“The ability to address environmental, agroeconomic and social challenges in the country and support the long-term relationship with UNSA is one of the exciting roles we play at Purdue,” Purdue Executive Vice President for Research Karen Plaut said. “It is about research, education and the ability to improve people’s lives by helping them meet their goals. We look forward to working with UNSA to make a difference for Peru.”
More information about the institute is available online at purdue.edu/discoverypark/arequipa-nexus.