Mobilizing Science For Global Food Security PDF Download

This report covers the first major external programme and management review (EPMR) of CIMMYT since 1988. Since that date, external reviews have been limited to a small-scale Interim Review (IER) in 1993, which the panel chose as the starting point for this review, and a series of Centre-Commisioned External Reviews (CCERs). Judged by the usual timetable for centre reviews, CIMMYT was therefore overdue for a full-scale external review. Notwithstanding this situation, the timing of the panel's visit was not ideal since CIMMYT is currently undergoing fundamental changes in the way it operates, under a director general who has been in office for only two years. The assessment of the Panel has therefore been conditioned by the requirement to review a system in the process of evolution. It has been assisted in this by the Medium-Term Plan (MTP) for the years 1998-2000 which CIMMYT has produced and which currently serves as the centre's statement of strategy. Compared with 1988, the duration of the exercise and the extent of travel allotted to the review was much reduced. It was not possible for the Panel to see every aspect of CIMMYT's work at first hand. However, Panel members visited CIMMYT's outreach activities in sub-Saharan Africa, in Asia and in Latin America before returning to Mexico for the main phase of the process. Opportunities therefore arose to consult not only with CIMMYT staff but also with key NARS representatives in the regions and in the host country. Some members of the Panel took the opportunity to have discussions with key donors and other participants during International Centers Week in Washington. "The Panel's overall view of CIMMYT is extremely favourable. The Centre conducts high-quality science and has an impressive record of achievements as well as impact on the daily livelihood of hundreds of millions of rural and urban poor. CIMMYT is well managed, has strong leadership, and is a flagship, and is a flagship centre of the CGIAR System".