Administrative management review of the bean/cowpea collaborative research support program, grant number DAN-1310-G-SS-6008-00

This report deals primarily with the past 3 years (1989-1991). While the previous Administrative Management Review Team complimented the Management Office for its adept management of the CRSP during a period of declining budgets, this team compliments their sound management during a period of increasing budgets. The team feels that the apportionment of the budget increase recognized new and needed research and training thrusts within the projects recommended in the five-year extension (1992-1997). Secondly, the team supports the initiation of new emphasis in the area of economics and women in development (WID). The latter two needs have been repeatedly stressed in recent External Evaluation Panel (EEP) recommendations. The team observed that the procedures and criteria used to initiate new projects, move projects to other countries, or to phase out projects are well documented and are carried out carefully and efficiently. The B/C CRSP is operating in its twelfth year. Significant technological advancements have been developed through interdisciplinary research in the area of germplasm improvement for both U.S. and host country growers. This CRSP is supplying "upstream research" in biotechnology areas that have tremendous worldwide potential. At the same time, it is also generating simple technologies such as improved varieties, cultural practices, control of field and storage insects, and improved nutrition. The CRSP scientists have used the full range of scientific methodologies to reach their research objectives. Linkages have been established with other CRSP's, international agricultural research centers, and other scientific research institutions around the world. Through these linkages, the CRSP has been able to extend its technologies to other scientists and to producers in many countries. This includes female farmers in Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean. Training has been and continues to be an important component of the CRSP. During its first decade, the program has provided degree training for 219 students and non-degree training for 899 participants. During the last 3 years, significant increases in the number of students trained have been achieved. The WID component has contributed significant input to most of the projects. The recent addition of an economics component will provide equally valuable contributions. In summary, the management of this CRSP has performed all the essential services and financial management requirements, as spelled out in the CRSP guidelines and the Program Grant Agreement. During site visits and interviews, the team sensed no real problems at any time or at any place. However, the review team has identified opportunities to improve overall management procedures. Thus, the recommendations contained in this report are made in an effort to "fine tune" the management of an efficiently operated and productive research program which has had measurable impact in both the United States and in host countries. (Author abstract)