Introduction
The Teaching and Research Farm (TRF) of the University of Dschang is an essential component of the Faculty of Agronomy and Agricultural Sciences (FASA).
It plays a crucial role in students’ practical training, agricultural research, and support for rural development.
History and Evolution
The origins of TRF date back to the 1940s when the Dschang Region, then the capital of the Bamiléké zone, was selected by the French colonial authorities for the establishment of agropastoral infrastructure.
One of the key crops at the time was quinquina, cultivated on over 500 hectares in Bansoa for quinine production.
A research and agricultural experimentation station, named "Quinquina Multiplication and Production Station," was established in Dschang on the current site of the Institute of Agricultural Research for Development (IRAD).
The station focused on research, production, and processing of quinquina, mainly for export. Over time, part of the station’s assets were integrated into the University Center of Dschang, the predecessor of today's University of Dschang. Since then, The Teaching and Research Farm diversified its activities to meet the educational and research needs of Faculty.
Sites and Infrastructure
TRF operates on two main sites
Main Campus in Dschang :
Covering 33.4 hectares, this site hosts educational activities, research laboratories, and experimental plots.
Bansoa Site:
 Located about « 30 km from Dschang, this site spans 107 hectares. Historically dedicated to quinquina cultivation, it is now used for various agricultural activities, including the production of basic seeds (maize, potatoes, plantain) and experimental cultivation of sunflower, soft wheat, Artemisia, and Cayenne pepper.
Missions and Activities
TRF fulfills several essential missions:
- Practical Training: Providing students with opportunities to apply theoretical knowledge through practical work, internships, and research projects.
- Agricultural Research: Conducting studies on soil fertility, crop protection, and improving production techniques.
- Support for Development: Collaborating with local communities and technical partners to promote sustainable agricultural practices and enhance food security.
Associated Laboratories
FASA has 11 specialized laboratories that often work in synergy with TRF:
- Soil Analysis and Environmental Chemistry Laboratory
- Phytopathology and Agricultural Zoology Laboratory
- Biotechnology and Bioinformatics Laboratory
- Ichthyology and Applied Hydraulics Laboratory
- Environmental Geomatics Laboratory
- Water Management Laboratory
- Agricultural Engineering Laboratory
- Animal Physiology and Health Laboratory
- Animal Production and Nutrition Laboratory
- Wildlife and Protected Areas, Silviculture, and Wood Technology Laboratory
- Genetics, Biotechnology, Agriculture, and Plant Production Laboratory
Challenges and Perspectives
Despite its potential, TRF faces challenges such as insufficient material and financial resources, as well as encroachment on its lands. Efforts are underway to revitalize its activities, notably through partnerships with organizations such as IRAD and the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MINADER). The goal is to strengthen its role as an educational tool and research center serving Cameroon’s agricultural development.
Opportunities for Collaboration and Mobility
The University of Dschang, through his Teaching and Research Farm, offers several collaboration and mobility opportunities for students and faculty with research centers and universities.
Student Mobility
- Internships and Practical Work: Students can undertake internships at research centers like IRAD.
- Applied Research Projects: Participation in experimental programs on various crops (sunflower, wheat, Artemisia, etc.).
University Exchanges: Collaboration with national and international institutions for semester exchanges
Teacher Mobility
- Research Partnership Programs:
- Collaboration with specialized laboratories and institutions
- Co-supervision of Students:
- Possibility of co-directing theses with other universities or research centers.
- Participation in Conferences and Seminars: Presentation of research findings at academic events.
Partnerships with Research Centers and Universities
- Development of Joint Projects:
   Conducting collaborative research on topics such as soil fertility,  animal nutrition, or biotechnology.
- Access to Research Infrastructure:
   The 11 Faculty laboratories facilitate scientific and technological exchanges.
- Support for Agricultural Development:
   Collaborating with local and international organizations to improve food security and sustainable agricultural practices.