Dr. Muhammad Ibrahim appointed Director General of IICA.
The Tropics Foundation congratulates CATIE alumnus and former CATIE Director General on this important leadership role for regional cooperation and sustainable agriculture.

Costa Rica is developing an ambitious National Reforestation Plan to 2050, aiming to establish at least 4,000 hectares of forest plantations each year and strengthen the country’s sustainable wood production. CATIE played a key role in this process, contributing expertise in knowledge management—identified as a cornerstone for the plan’s success. Through science, innovation and capacity building, CATIE continues to support Costa Rica’s efforts to revitalize its forest sector, enhance rural opportunities and advance climate-resilient development.

Dr. Muhammad Ibrahim, graduate of CATIE’s Graduate School and former Director General, assumes leadership of the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA).

The International Biological Control Congress at CATIE brought together global experts to exchange knowledge and foster innovation in sustainable agriculture. From honoring Prof. Dr. R. A. Sikora for his lifetime contributions, to showcasing new research on biological control solutions, the event continues today with workshops, scientific sessions and international collaborations aimed at reducing pesticide use and strengthening tropical agriculture.

Tatiana Espinosa, a CATIE alumna and founder of ARBIO Perú, has been named one of the 50 Most Powerful Women in Peru by Forbes. Her leadership in Amazon forest conservation and her dedication to gender equity exemplify the transformational impact of CATIE graduates. Discover how her work is protecting 916 hectares of rainforest — and inspiring a new generation of environmental leaders across Latin America.

Indigenous women leaders from Costa Rica gathered at CATIE to strengthen their national alliance, share cultural knowledge and define joint strategies for inclusion, leadership and access to education.

What if discarded airplane leather could spark creativity, empowerment and change? Discover how ten rural women in Costa Rica turned repurposed airline seats into a bold fashion statement—blending sustainability, design and dignity through the Leather & Studs collection. A powerful story of transformation supported by CATIE, Southwest Airlines and The Tropics Foundation.