The Royal University of Agriculture (RUA) successfully hosted its annual Scientific Day on December 5, 2024, at the Samdech Techo Hun Sen Conference Hall. Organized by the Faculty of Agricultural Economics and Rural Development (RUA) and the Faculty of Tropical AgriSciences (CZU), the event centered on the theme "Agri-Food System: Innovations and Challenges." It featured a diverse lineup of speakers, including H.E. Prof. Bunthan NGO, Rector of RUA, who delivered the opening remarks, and Dr. Petra Chaloupková from CZU, highlighting Czech-Cambodian cooperation. Esteemed experts presented on topics such as smart agriculture in the digital age and strategies for reducing food loss and waste in trading systems. The event was also attended by the Ambassador of the Czech Republic in the Kingdom of Cambodia, Mr. Martin Vávra, and his deputy Mr. Jakub Černý.

The international conference welcomed over 350 students and faculty members. The full-day event included keynote addresses, oral and poster presentations, and an engaging panel discussion on the transformation of agri-food systems. The afternoon session highlighted study opportunities in the Czech Republic, presented by Dr. Olga Leuner from CZU, who also introduced the Faculty of Tropical AgriSciences.

The day concluded with a dynamic panel discussion, "Perspectives of Agri-Food System Transformation," involving representatives from the Ministry of Agriculture, academia, and the non-profit sector from Cambodia and the Czech Republic. This platform not only showcased innovative research but also emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing the pressing challenges in agriculture and food systems globally and locally.

We are pleased to invite you to a unique lecture session featuring esteemed guests from Somaliland: Date: Tuesday, December 10, 2024 Time: 2:00 PM Venue: FTZ, Room 401

On December 4, 2024, our faculty had the privilege of participating in the 30th anniversary celebration of the Faculty of Agriculture and Food Technology, University of Mostar. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Prof. Ing. Jan Banout, Ph.D., and Ing. Iva Kučerová, Ph.D., who were honored for their exceptional contributions and dedication to international collaborations between the Czech University of Life Sciences Prague and the University of Mostar.

These partnerships not only enhance scientific knowledge and expertise but also inspire and support future generations of students and researchers.

We return from Mostar with awards, fresh ideas, and renewed energy to strengthen our cooperation and embark on new projects!

Erasmus+ Coffee, held on November 28 at the Faculty of Tropical AgriSciences, attracted students interested in exploring opportunities for studying or interning abroad. The event focused on presenting the possibilities of the Erasmus+ program, including International Credit Mobility (ICM), which facilitates exchanges with countries outside the European Union.

Participating in the Erasmus+ KA171 program is more than just an academic opportunity—it’s a life-changing experience. This program, supported by Erasmus+ KA171 funding, allows students from across the globe to immerse themselves in innovative academic environments and diverse cultures.

Dear members of the Academic Community of the Faculty of Tropical AgriSciences, We would like to inform you that on 15th October 2024, the proposals of candidates for the position of Dean of FTZ CZU Prague for the term 2025–2029 were submitted. Eight candidates were proposed, of which two accepted their candidacies and meet the conditions for the position.

Candidates for the position of Dean of FTZ (in alphabetical order):

• Ing. Petra Chaloupková, Ph.D., dr. h. c.
• Assoc. Prof. Ing. Hynek Roubík, Ph.D.

The candidates' CVs and their visions for the direction of FTZ are available:

• on the FTZ website: https://www.ftz.czu.cz/en/r-9418-about-faculty/r-9452-academic-senate,
• on the FTZ’s official notice board,
• on the board on the ground floor next to the Study Department.

We warmly invite you to the FTZ Academic Community Meeting, including a discussion with the candidates, which will take place on 12th December 2024 at 1 p.m. in room 116.

The election of the Dean of the Faculty of Tropical AgriSciences will take place on 9th January 2025. The Dean is elected by the members of the AS FTZ.