By Michael Jegede
The National Biotechnology Development Agency (NABDA) has concluded a two-day training workshop for scientists engaged in product development on Genome Editing (GEd), in collaboration with the African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD).
The training for the scientists drawn from different parts of Nigeria, the academia, research institutions, relevant ministries and organisations was held between 28th and 29th of February in Abuja after an earlier two-day workshop for communicators on the GEd technology.
In his closing remarks to bring the training to an end, the Director General (DG) of NABDA, Prof. Abdullahi Mustapha, said: “As we draw the curtains on this enlightening and enriching two-day training workshop on the validation of the Genome Edited (GE) product communication module, it is with great pleasure and gratitude that I extend my heartfelt appreciation to each and every one of you. Your dedication and active participation have made this event a resounding success, and your commitment to the process has truly elevated the discussions and insights shared during this workshop.
“The commitment displayed here is a testament to the collective strength of the African scientific community in advancing our understanding and communication of genome editing technologies. The strides we have made in developing the communication module under the AUDA-NEPAD Genome Editing Communication and Advocacy Initiative are pivotal to fostering public awareness and understanding of the transformative potential of genome editing in our region.”
The NABDA Chief continued: “As you leave this workshop, I trust that you are departing with a deeper understanding of the intricate processes involved in genome-edited product development. The knowledge gained here is not only an investment in your professional growth but also a contribution to the broader scientific community as we collectively strive to harness the power of biotechnology for the betterment of our society.
“Looking ahead, I remind you that we eagerly anticipate your active participation in the forthcoming International Biotechnology Conference and Exhibition to be hosted by NABDA. This platform will provide an even greater opportunity to exchange ideas, share discoveries, products and services; and collaborate on cutting-edge advancements in biotechnology. Another key activity that NABDA is undertaking, that would be of interest to the scientific community, is the review of the National Biotechnology Policy to accommodate the frontiers of biotechnology advances in the last few years and projections for the future. Therefore, your continued involvement is vital in shaping the future of biotechnological innovation in Africa.”
The professor of chemistry expressed profound appreciation to all the participants, facilitators, and organizers who, according to him, made the workshop a success.
“Let us carry the momentum of our discussions forward and continue to champion the responsible development and communication of genome-edited products,” he urged the scientists.
An innovative technology that will boost agricultural production and guarantee food security, Genome Editing is a technique used by research scientists to cause change by way of an alteration, removal or addition in the genetic material (DNA) of a living organism for the purpose of producing improved varieties.
NABDA and AUDA-NEPAD have been working together with great zeal and determination to enhance Nigeria’s capacity in Genome Editing, so as to open up the country for sustainable economic growth and development through improved agriculture and industrialization.
