Denita Hadziabdic Guerry, an assistant professor in the Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, was selected as a Fulbright Scholar. Hadziabdic Guerry’s research focuses on an indigenous crop, frafra potato (Solenostemon rotendifolius), an alternative food source in collaboration with the University of Ghana.

The Fulbright award, granted to Hadziabdic Guerry, aims to explore the potential of indigenous crop species as foods of the future, emphasizing the need for their integration into existing agricultural research. Her project involves a comprehensive study of the genetic diversity of frafra potato populations in Ghana and neighboring sub-Saharan African countries where this species is cultivated.

Over four months, Hadziabdic Guerry will work closely with her collaborator at the University of Ghana, Dr. Naalamle Amissah, to conduct field research and evaluate the viability of frafra potato as a sustainable food source. This project not only contributes to scientific understanding but also provides invaluable hands-on experiential learning opportunities for faculty, staff, and students at the University of Ghana.

Hadziabdic Guerry’s selection as a Fulbright Scholar underscores the importance of interdisciplinary research in addressing global food security challenges. Her innovative approach exemplifies the Fulbright program’s commitment to fostering international collaboration and cultural exchange.