The African Academy of Sciences (AAS) congratulates Professor Karimbhai Maredia, a distinguished agricultural scientist and Fellow of the African Academy of Sciences (FAAS), on receiving the Borlaug CAST Communication Award (BCCA) in recognition of his outstanding contributions to communicating agricultural science and advancing global food security.

Prof Maredia, a professor at Michigan State University (MSU), has built a distinguished career at the intersection of agricultural research, development, capacity building, and science communication. His work has helped connect scientific knowledge with policymakers, development practitioners, farmers, and other stakeholders to promote evidence-based approaches to agricultural development.

The Borlaug CAST Communication Award, established by the Council for Agricultural Science and Technology (CAST), honours individuals who have demonstrated excellence in communicating agricultural science and technology to diverse audiences. The award reflects the importance of effectively translating scientific knowledge into information that can inform decisions and contribute to improvements in agriculture, food systems, and livelihoods.

Throughout his career, Prof Maredia has contributed to agricultural development initiatives in Africa and other parts of the Global South, with a particular focus on strengthening agricultural research and extension systems, evaluating development programmes, and building institutional capacity. His work has helped advance the use of evidence and innovation to address challenges affecting smallholder farmers and food systems.

His recognition with the BCCA further highlights the vital role of effective science communication in ensuring that agricultural research delivers meaningful impact beyond academia. By connecting research with practitioners and decision-makers, scientists can help translate innovations into practical solutions that improve food security and livelihoods.

As a Fellow of the African Academy of Sciences, Prof Maredia exemplifies the Academy’s commitment to recognising scientific excellence and celebrating scientists and scholars whose work contributes to sustainable development.

The AAS warmly congratulates Professor Maredia on this well-deserved honour and celebrates his continued contributions to agricultural science, knowledge exchange, capacity development, and food security.