AFSI Newsletter - October 2021
Webinar on Genome Editing in Agriculture: Potential Opportunities and Way Forward in Bangladesh
By enabling precise and efficient modification of a plant's genome, gene editing is an important tool for crop improvement. Gene editing techniques are being used across the globe to incorporate desirable traits in various crops, including cereals, pulses, oilseeds, fruits, and vegetables. On October 4, 2021, the Bangladesh Academy of Sciences (BAS), South Asia Biosafety Program (SABP), Agriculture & Food Systems Institute (AFSI), and Biotech Consortium India Limited (BCIL) organized a webinar to discuss developments in gene editing and the policy environment in Bangladesh. The event attracted more than 300 registrants, with over 100 attending in-person, and a recording is now available on the AFSI website.
Gene Editing Technology
The first portion of the webinar focused on gene editing technology, with presentations by Dr. Jimmy Botella from the University of Queensland, who gave a general introduction to genome editing, and Drs. A.B.M. Md. Khademul Islam and Zeba Seraj from the University of Dhaka, who delivered presentations on applications of gene editing to healthcare and crop improvement in Bangladesh, respectively.
Regulatory Framework
AFSI's Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Andrew Roberts, laid the groundwork for the final portion of the webinar by providing an overview of regulatory frameworks for gene edited plants in various countries. Dr. K.C. Bansal from the National Academy of Agricultural Sciences then brought a more regional focus with a presentation about the recommended framework in India. The event concluded with a panel discussion with professors from four different universities in Bangladesh, who talked about the need for enabling policies for the use of gene editing in the country.
Third International Conference on Green Plant Protection Innovation
The Third International Conference on Green Plant Protection Innovation (ICGPPI) took place on September 24-26, 202, in China. The event was organized to promote understanding and cooperation in developing the tools needed for a sustainable and safe food supply. Participating virtually as a speaker in this year’s ICGPPI, Dr. Rachel Melnick delivered the presentation “Plant Biologicals-Challenges to Getting Solutions to Producers” during the final day of the conference.