Al-Mukalla / University Media
Prof. Mohamed Khanbash, President of Hadhramout University, chaired today the first meeting of the Board of Directors of the Honey Bee Center, reaffirming the university’s commitment to strengthening the Center’s scientific, research, and developmental role in supporting the beekeeping sector in Hadhramout Governorate.
The meeting was attended by members of the Board of Directors, Dr. Mohammed Abubakr Muqbil, Director of the Center, and the heads of the Center’s scientific departments. It marked the beginning of a new phase in the Center’s development. Established in 2003, the Center is set to implement an ambitious work plan for the second half of 2026.
University President Reviews the Center’s Achievements and Future Vision
At the outset of the meeting, Prof. Khanbash presented an overview of the establishment and development of the Honey Bee Center, highlighting its major scientific and research achievements since its founding. He also reviewed the challenges the Center has faced over the years, emphasizing the importance of restoring its pioneering role in supporting the beekeeping sector, one of Hadhramout’s most important economic and developmental industries.
He stressed the need to strengthen cooperation among researchers, academics, government institutions, and international organizations to reinforce the Center’s scientific standing and further develop it as a leading hub for research, training, and extension services that keep pace with modern advances in apiculture and bee-product industries.
Comprehensive Work Plan for the Second Half of 2026
The Board reviewed its work plan for the period from July to December 2026, which includes four regular meetings to be held every two months. The agenda includes:
- Approving the Board’s work plan for the second half of the year.
- Preparing an assessment of the current status of the beekeeping sector in Hadhramout Governorate.
- Conducting a study on bee forage resources and grazing areas, including the challenges affecting them.
- Developing a strategic plan for advancing the beekeeping sector in the governorate.
- Reviewing the scientific departments’ plans for 2027.
- Monitoring progress on the rehabilitation of the Center’s facilities.
- Preparing for the upcoming Honey Festival.
Prof. Khanbash also commended the efforts of the Center’s administration and scientific departments, praising their achievements during the past period, including the organization of scientific seminars and the establishment of local and international partnerships. He reaffirmed the university’s continued commitment to supporting the Center in overcoming challenges and achieving its strategic objectives.
The Center Embarks on a New Phase of Development
For his part, Dr. Mohammed Abubakr Muqbil, Director of the Honey Bee Center, stated that the Board’s inaugural meeting represents an important milestone in the Center’s institutional and operational development. He explained that the approved work plan focuses on strategic priorities aligned with the university’s vision for advancing the beekeeping sector and strengthening its contribution to sustainable development and food security in Hadhramout.
Dr. Muqbil added that the meeting also discussed expanding cooperation with the Hadhramout Coast Office of Agriculture, Irrigation and Fisheries, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), and international partners to accelerate the implementation of specialized projects. These include establishing a laboratory for testing the quality of honey and bee products, as well as organizing a Honey Festival to further promote Hadhramout’s reputation as a leading producer of premium Yemeni honey.
He concluded by expressing his appreciation to the University President for his continued support in overcoming the Center’s challenges and thanked the Board members and the Center’s staff for their dedication and commitment to its continued success.
