Research Highlights of the CIMMYT Wheat Program 1999-2000

the CIMMYT wheat breeding program. There is
little question that senior working scientists profit
greatly by coming to Mexico and working side by
side with CIMMYT scientists. The experience
exposes them to the most up-to-date methods and
materials available at CIMMYT, gives their work a
valuable boost, and provides valuable stimulus to
national programs. When courses are properly
programmed, a visiting scientist may spend one
and a half to two months at CIMMYT and then
return home without missing a cycle within the
national program.
Profile of CAWI Participants
The major focus of the CAWI course is on seniorlevel
researchers. Criteria for selecting participants
include: the candidate must be fully employed,
occupy a senior position in the national wheat
program (e.g., senior breeder or pathologist, or
genetic resources staff), have at least five years of
wheat research experience, and a working
knowledge of English.
Course Content and Logistics
The CAWI course offers participants: 1) a
combination of lectures, laboratory classes, and
field work to ensure a good balance of scientific
theory and its practical applications; 2) direct and
personal relationships with CIMMYT staff,
whereby participants learn to appreciate the
dignity of field work and the satisfaction and pride
that comes from doing this important task; 3) the
unique opportunity to come into contact and
discuss their circumstances with colleagues from
many countries; and 4) the initiation of a long
relationship with CIMMYT.
The course curriculum was developed in response
to the needs of collaborating countries. This
allowed the identification of what was needed in
terms of instructors and support staff, teaching
materials, laboratories, books, manuals, and
inputs, as well as housing, food, transportation,
and operational costs. CIMMYT’s experienced
wheat training staff provided counsel on these
matters.
The exchange of germplasm is an important aspect
of this program. Visiting scientists send germplasm
to CIMMYT, and while at the Center, they can
observe the performance of their materials. In
return, they have the opportunity to select
germplasm from CIMMYT’s extensive nurseries
for use in their own varietal development
programs. The concept of international
cooperation—the exchange of information and
breeding materials—is a significant component of
this course.
The advanced course is scheduled to take place
once a year or every other year, depending on
financial availability. The six-week course is
scheduled to coincide with the wheat selection/
harvest period so that participants can acquire
practical experience. Throughout the course,
participants work and interact constantly with
each other and with CIMMYT staff of all
disciplines in both classroom and field, as they
conduct research activities. The experience fosters
camaraderie between staff and participants, and
increases their confidence, knowledge,
competence, and appreciation of field activities.
Participants also acquire an appreciation for the
multidisciplinary approach to wheat improvement.
Course Venue
The CAWI course is held at the experiment stations
at El Batan and Toluca, near Mexico City, or in
Ciudad Obregon, Sonora. CIMMYT’s long wheat
training experience, access to a wide array of
germplasm, infrastructure, availability of physical,
teaching, and financial resources, as well as the
involvement of a considerable number of highly
skilled, experienced wheat scientists are some of
the advantages of conducting the course in Mexico.
Participants are exposed to effectively organized
wheat crop programs that provide them with
models they may develop and adapt to their own
situations.
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