IUFRO Management Committee meets CSIR-FORIG Research Scientists

CSIR-Forestry Research Institute of Ghana-Fumesua came alive on Wednesday, September 20th, 2023, as the International Union of Forest Research Organizations (IUFRO) management committee embarked on a significant working visit led by the esteemed President of the organization, Dr. John A. Parrotta.  This visit was a testament to the thriving collaboration between global forest research leaders and Ghana's distinguished Institute CSIR-FORIG.
With a warm embrace, the Director of CSIR-FORIG, Prof. Daniel A. Ofori, welcomed the IUFRO delegation. 
Prof. Ofori expressed delight at hosting their distinguished guests, emphasizing the enduring bond between the two institutions.
 He took the opportunity to introduce CSIR-FORIG once more, showcasing its remarkable evolution and commitment to becoming a Centre of excellence in forestry research excellence in the humid tropics. 
During the enlightening presentation, Prof. Ofori provided a glimpse into the institute's history and the diverse research divisions working tirelessly towards their respective goal. He indicated that each division focused on a specific research domain, all contributing to CSIR-FORIG's overarching mission and that the research programmes of the institute are in synchrony with the
IUFRO themes and Divisions.
Dr. Parrotta, the President of IUFRO, reciprocated with an overview of IUFRO's mission and operations highlighting the organization's commitment to being the global voice of forest science for a more sustainable future. This vision, he noted, is closely aligned with CSIR-FORIG's mission.
Dr. Parrotta explained that their mission thrived on research excellence and knowledge dissemination to find science-based solutions to global forest challenges, echoing the commendable work being done by CSIR-FORIG and expressed their intent to replicate this commitment in other countries. 
In a moment of pride, Dr. Parrotta revealed that Ghana play a significant role within IUFRO, with Prof. Daniel A. Ofori representing the nation as the country's representative on the international council. 
He also lauded the presence of five IUFRO member organizations in Ghana, with CSIR-FORIG leading the way.
 As the meeting progressed, researchers shared heartwarming experiences with IUFRO, from sponsorship to conferences, underscoring the impactful partnerships fostered by the organizations.
 Dr. Parrotta concluded by extending an open invitation for members to reach out for any needed information and expressed gratitude to the Director Prof. Ofori for his warm hospitality.
To commemorate the visit, he presented the Director of CSIR-FORIG with an iconic IUFRO cap and a symbolic mapping bird, while recognizing the outstanding contributions of select members with tokens of appreciation. To crown it all, the President who led the delegation planted an endangered species of Aubergrinia taiensis. “Great Tiger-nut tree” at the Rawlings Park of CSIR-FORIG. 
This harmonious interaction between the IUFRO Management Committee and CSIR-FORIG was a testament to the power of international collaboration in advancing forest research for a sustainable future.