Biosketch – Dr Papa Abdoulaye Seck

Dr Papa Abdoulaye Seck is a specialist in agricultural policy analysis and strategy. He is a permanent member of the Senegal Academy of Sciences and has the rank of Director of Research. He is currently the Director General of the Africa Rice Center (AfricaRice), which is one of the 15 international Centers supported by the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR). In addition, Dr. Seck is on the advisory board of several research bodies, including the Strategic Orientation Council of Agreenium, France; the Executive Committee of the Global Forum for Agricultural Research (GFAR);  and the Executive Committee of the Gender & Diversity AWARD Program.

Before taking up this position, Dr Seck was the Director General of the Agricultural Research Institute of Senegal (ISRA) and the Technical Advisor to the Prime Minister of Senegal; Elected Chair of the Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA); Member of the Governing Board of the West and Central African Council for Research and Development (CORAF/WECARD); Member of the AfricaRice Board of Trustees; and the African Representative to the CGIAR Executive Committee.

Dr Seck has received the title of Chevalier in the Order of Agricultural Merit of France, a Certificate of Recognition from FARA, a Medal of Honor from (CORAF/WECARD), a United Nations Award in his capacity as AfricaRice Director General and an Award of Recognition from the Agriculture Ministry of Mali presented at the 50th Anniversary Celebration of the country. He has also received the title of the Chevalier in the National Order of Lion and Officer in the Order of Merit of Senegal.
 
Dr Seck was among the 4 International Experts selected by the United-Nations Secretary General to make a presentation on the Millennium Development Goals before the Heads of States and Governments of the world. He has authored or co-authored 80 publications, including articles, papers in international conferences with scientific committees, books and forewords for more than 10 books.