Food security is one of the greatest concerns facing the planet in the coming years. Ensuring everyone has enough food to eat requires a multi-pronged approach across all areas of the agriculture industry. One of the world’s leading researchers in post-harvest handling, drying and storage of grains and oilseeds will visit Lethbridge College next week for a guest lecture to discuss solutions to food security issues.
Dr. Digvir Jayas, a former Tier I (Senior) Canada Research Chair in Stored-Grain Ecosystems, has collaborated with researchers in several countries and has helped develop efficient grain storage, handling and drying systems. He has served as both interim President and Vice President of the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC) Council and was appointed as an Officer of the Order of Canada in 2018. He will speak at Lethbridge College at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 25, in an event open to college students, employees and the community.
“Dr. Jayas’ research in his field is nearly unparalleled, and we are thrilled he is able to join us for this very special event,” says Kenny Corscadden, Vice President – Research and Partnerships. “Given Lethbridge College’s focus on post-harvest technology research, led by Dr. Chandra Singh, it is a natural tie to bring in Dr. Jayas, who is a leader in this field. This event will be a great learning opportunity for both our internal community, as well as those from around southern Alberta who are interested in learning more about food security, agriculture and post-harvest practices.”
Lethbridge College is a signatory of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Accord, and Jayas’ talk aligns with SDG goal two of zero hunger. Advances in post-harvest technology are key to the food processing chain – working to make sure as much food as possible makes it from the field to the market without spoiling.
Jayas’ research has contributed to post-harvest technology projects in Canada, China, India, Ukraine and the United States. He has authored or co-authored over 975 technical articles in scientific journals, conference proceedings and books dealing with issues of storing, drying, handling and quality monitoring of grains. Educated at the G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology in India, the University of Manitoba and the University of Saskatchewan, he has just completed a 13-year term Vice-President (Research and International) at the University of Manitoba.
Anyone interested in attending Jayas’ guest lecture can reserve free tickets through the Lethbridge College website.
Media availability: Media are invited to attend Dr. Jayas’ talk in the college’s E.C. Fredericks Theatre (CE1365) and can speak to Dr. Jayas in this same location at noon on Tuesday, Oct. 25.