JACOB AYUK-TAKEM was born in Besongabang on December 23, 1944. He is much loved and will always be remembered by all his friends and family. He was a hard-working and soft-spoken man who acheived much for his family, village, country and the world at large. As a seasoned researcher, he spear-headed several projects that have helped and are still helping to feed many people. His research interests were wide, including but not limited to Cereals (Maize)and Cassava.