The Vision for Adapted Crops and Soils (VACS) is a global initiative launched in 2023 by the U.S. Department of State, in collaboration with the African Union and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). The programme aims to develop resilient food systems by promoting the cultivation of diverse, nutritious, and climate-adapted crops in healthy, fertile soils.

A core component of the VACS initiative is the focus on underutilized crops—often referred to as opportunity crops—including pigeon pea, bambara groundnut, taro, sesame, finger millet, okra, and amaranth. These crops have the potential to significantly enhance food and nutrition security while improving the climate resilience of agricultural systems across Africa.

The West Africa Centre for Crop Improvement (WACCI) at the University of Ghana is a one of three hubs for the VACS Capacity Building Program. For over 17 years, WACCI has led agricultural research and training in Africa. It is now well placed to drive innovation in crops and soils that are essential for addressing food security and climate change. The Centre’s mission is to train plant breeders to develop improved varieties of staple crops for West and Central Africa, in line with the goals of the VACS initiative.

As a VACS Capacity Hub, WACCI will play a pivotal role in training the next generation of African agricultural scientists and breeders. The Centre will develop and deliver specialized curricula in plant breeding and soft skills, providing both hands-on and virtual training in laboratory and field-based research techniques. 

Additionally, WACCI will be facilitating the placement of VACS fellows in host institutions for research and professional internships, helping them gain practical experience in real-world settings. Mentorship will be a core element of the programme, with WACCI recruiting experts from diverse organizations to support fellows' development and provide them with the guidance needed to excel in their careers.

Through these activities, WACCI will contribute to the broader objective of disseminating knowledge and fostering long-term capacity within the African agricultural research community.