Improvement of postharvest grain systems

Evaluation period is not specified. The project is fulfilling a vital need. FFGI staff are highly experienced and capable, particularly in the areas of training and TA. Training has been strong, and (although it is difficult to quantify TA outputs, due mainly to poor reporting on FFGI"s part), TA activities have also been worthwhile. Research is currently the project"s weakest link, understandably so in view of its former discouragement by A.I.D./W; a substantial effort should be made to develop a problem-solving research capability integrated with training and TA. Ways should also be found to expand communication among FFGI, A.I.D./Washington, Missions, and other organizations which have a role in postharvest work. Training-of-trainers activities should also be expanded, perhaps through increased use of video materials. Finally, FFGI"s Postharvest Documentation Service, which is now fairly well established, should be encouraged to expand its database in order to solidify and extend the impact of FFGI activities. Demand for FFGI services has been great and is increasing, but project funding was cut by $1.4 million in 1982, causing the scope of project activities to be scaled down. The project should be extended for five years, and A.I.D. should find ways of increasing its financial support for project activities.