SEARCA@60
SEARCA@60 is more than a milestone—it is a visionary call to action.
For 60 years, SEARCA has advanced solutions that improve livelihoods, food systems, and resilience in Southeast Asia—by turning research evidence, innovation, and knowledge into real-world impact for people and communities. Our journey mirrors the region's own story: evolving from the urgent pursuit of food security to mastering modern complexities like climate resilience and the digital revolution.
Six decades of impact have taught us that true transformation is a story still being written. This year, we honor our heritage by stepping forward to drive the change our agricultural systems need by strengthening leaders and institutions to uplift lives and communities in Southeast Asia.
Message from the SEARCA Center Director
For 60 years, SEARCA has been more than an institution---it has been a community of people working together across Southeast Asia. Through scholarships, capacity building, research, policy advocacy, and innovation, SEARCA has grown alongside the 11 Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization member countries---one story, one breakthrough, one partnership at a time. Show more
Farmers, scholars, and youths have inspired us and together with country governments, academic institutions, the private sector and development partners, our journey was shaped to accelerate modernization, sustainability, and innovation of agricultural systems. We are grateful for the trust and support that have allowed us to learn, grow, share, and empower people and communities who gave meaning to our efforts.
As we celebrate SEARCA@60, we honor this legacy built on partnership, leadership, and a shared commitment to cultivate agricultural futures guided by our 12th Five-Year Development Plan, SUSTAIN Southeast Asia, with a framework centered on 4 pillars: Pocket, Plate, Place, and People. Under this Plan, we move forward with renewed and strengthened purpose -- to see agriculture transformed with more empowered and innovative farmers and with agricultural families enjoying much improved quality of life.
To our scholars, alumni, partners and friends: this celebration is yours as much as it is ours. Share your SEARCA stories, join our anniversary events, and help shape a Southeast Asia that is inclusive, sustainable and future-ready.
With gratitude for the past and hope for the future, let us celebrate sixty years of impact---and look forward to many more years of transformation together. Show less
Dr. Mercedita Sombilla
SEARCA Center Director