Researchers of the Institute of Horticulture receive the “Sējējs 2025” Award for their study on Dicotyledonous Plant as a new source of vitamin E
We are proud to announce that the research team of the Institute of Horticulture has received the award in the category “Science in Practice and Innovation”. The award was granted for the study “Dicotyleonous Plant (Hypericum): A Newly Discovered Source of Vitamin E in Latvia”, which highlights new opportunities for the use of local medicinal plants and their potential in the development of healthy food and dietary supplements.
At the end of October, the award ceremony of the Ministry of Agriculture’s competition “Sējējs 2025” took place in a festive atmosphere at the cultural center Hanzas perons. For more than thirty years, this competition has been the most significant national event honoring achievements in Latvian agriculture and rural development, bringing together the best professionals, farmers, and researchers of the sector.
The research team consists of Ph.D. Pawel Gornas, Dr. sc. ing. Dalija Segliņa, M. sc. sal. Inga Mišina, Bc. Elise Sipeniece, and Bc. Ieva Miķelsone. Their achievement demonstrates that scientific innovations developed in Latvia can provide practical value and create new solutions for food production and public health promotion.
The laureates were congratulated at the ceremony by Minister of Agriculture Armands Krauze and President of Latvia Edgars Rinkēvičs, who emphasized that the “Sējējs” competition is a testament to the vitality of the agricultural and rural sectors, to innovation, and to the people whose work inspires others.
This year marks the 32nd edition of the “Sējējs” competition, with awards presented in nine categories. The nominees in each category were evaluated by professional juries representing the relevant sectors, while the recipient of the “Lifetime Achievement in Agriculture” award was selected by the Agricultural Consultative Council.
The aim of the competition is to highlight and support outstanding contributions to the development of Latvia’s rural areas, sustainable farming, and the practical application of science, as well as to showcase the diversity of farming models. It encourages people to care for their environment, promotes youth interest in agriculture, and helps popularize scientific achievements.
All laureates received the annual “Sējējs” Award – a bronze statuette, a diploma, and a monetary prize. Over the years, this award has become a prestigious recognition of the dedication, responsibility, and confidence with which farming, research, and innovation continue to thrive in Latvia’s countryside.
The Institute of Horticulture proudly celebrates the work and achievements of its researchers and their contribution to the development of Latvian science and agriculture!