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Who We Are

Welcome to the Postharvest and Agroprocessing Research Centre (PARC) at the University of Johannesburg, home to the SARChI Chair in Sustainable Preservation and Agroprocessing Research. PARC is a pioneering research hub addressing critical challenges in food security, postharvest technology, and agroprocessing across Africa and beyond.

Our mandate is to advance innovative postharvest and agroprocessing solutions that:

Enhance food security by reducing postharvest losses.
Add value to horticultural, indigenous, and medicinal food crops.
Train the next generation of scientists through academic programs, mentorship, and hands-on research opportunities.
Deliver practical, science-based solutions to farmers, packhouse operators, exporters, food processors, and policymakers.

Driven by a commitment to research excellence, capacity building, and impactful partnerships, PARC tackles pressing issues such as fresh produce preservation, sustainable agroprocessing technologies, and the valorization of bioresources for improved health and economic outcomes.

As we grow, we are expanding our research network, supporting emerging researchers, and collaborating globally to contribute to the food bioeconomy. Together, we strive to build a future where everyone has access to safe, nutritious, and sustainable food.

Thank you for visiting our page. We invite you to explore our research projects, partnerships, and the dedicated team shaping Africa’s food systems.

Warm regards,
Prof. Olaniyi A. Fawole
SARChI Chair & Director

SARChI in Sustainable Preservation and Agroprocessing Research (SPAR)
Postharvest and Agroprocessing Research Centre (PARC)
Faculty of Science, University of Johannesburg, Auckland Park Campus

Vision

We envision a future where everyone has access to safe, nutritious, and sustainable food.

The Postharvest and Agroprocessing Research Centre (PARC) aspires to become a global leader in postharvest and agroprocessing research, renowned for:

  • Reducing food loss and waste across the value chain.
  • Advancing sustainable food systems that promote biodiversity and resilience.
  • Forging impactful partnerships that drive innovation and catalyze lasting change.


Our vision is closely aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those focused on:

  • Zero Hunger (SDG 2): Ensuring access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food for all.
  • Responsible Consumption and Production (SDG 12): Promoting sustainable production practices and reducing waste.
  • Climate Action (SDG 13): Encouraging eco-friendly technologies that lower the carbon footprint of food systems.

Mission

At PARC, our mission is to lead in research, innovation, and capacity building to revolutionize postharvest and agroprocessing systems. Our work focuses on improving food security, nutrition, and economic value across the food supply chain. To achieve this, we are dedicated to:

  • Innovation: Developing cutting-edge, science-based technologies that extend the shelf life and maintain the quality of perishable crops.
  • Sustainability: Promoting sustainable preservation and agroprocessing solutions that align with global environmental goals and the principles of the circular bioeconomy.
  • Empowerment: Training and mentoring the next generation of scientists, researchers, and professionals to tackle food security challenges with practical, impactful solutions.
  • Collaboration: Partnering with industry stakeholders, government agencies, and international collaborators to ensure research outputs are meaningful, scalable, and actionable.

  • Revolutionize: Delivering solutions that transform how food is preserved, processed, and consumed, fostering sustainable food systems that withstand environmental and economic challenges.