food technology in developing countries

In most cases, from the time of putting seeds into the soil one would need to apply some technology so as to yield the product in a short period possible, and have the harvest in large quantity.

Thursday, May 08, 2008

In most cases, from the time of putting seeds into the soil one would need to apply some technology so as to yield the product in a short period possible, and have the harvest in large quantity.

Although Rwanda is tuning into Information Technology hub in the region, the country has not engaged into strong food technology.

In this case, Food technology means the application of food science to the selection, preservation, processing, packaging, distribution, and use of safe, nutritious, and wholesome food.

Food scientists and food technologists have a burden to study the physical, microbiological, and chemical makeup of food. In most cases the studies depend on the individual interests leading to specialization, making food Scientists focus on several things of which in most cases focuses on the stage of food.

The normal stages where the country would need the application of food technology enforcement currently is food process, preserve, package, or store food, according to industry and government specifications and regulations.

Endeavors towards food technology do not only help in development and promotion of quality food products, but also helps consumers to think of the vast collection of foods and satisfying their needs.

Recently regional students requested for the integration of information technology and entrepreneurship studies in their university disciplines to minimize unemployment. This is not enough without the consideration of what every creature needs (food).

The meeting that was held at the National University of Rwanda (NUR) attracted 65 brain equipped students from the East African Community Students’ Union (EACSU) and argued that they were doing so because universities need to produce job creators.

Students criticized theoretical ways of learning and urged their fellow students to always put what they read into practice as it was the only means of fighting the biting poverty in their countries.

The head of NUR’s Centre for Conflicts Management, Prof. Anastase Shyaka says students have to take a lead in making changes wherever it might be needed. "You are taking the lead today and you have a chance of being tomorrow’s leaders as well, he affirms."

Prof. Shyaka who is also the chairperson of Rwanda’s National Consultative Committee on the EAC, advises students in the region to develop exchange programmes among universities in order to learn a wide range of issues in surrounding countries.

He reminds people on the concept of entrepreneurship and the role of ICT in the country’s development.

Director of Planning in Rwanda’s Ministry of Education, Claver Yisa Kamana says that, technology is what is exactly needed. He says it is what should be given attention so as to have stable development.

"Countries from the regional block are in the process of harmonizing their education systems and the knowledge-based economy is likely to guide education goals in the region. The whole world is led by ICT today. Let us not miss this digital revolution", he says.

Efforts to deliver; tasty, nutritious, safe, and convenient foods are under way. Schools would handle the matter in a sensitive manner. Food technology should be part of the curriculum and should emphasize among others; cooking methods, nutrition and the food manufacturing process.

Ends