Open Forum on Agricultural Biotechnology (OFAB) Nigeria, under the auspices of the National Biotechnology Research Development Agency (NBRDA), has inaugurated its Biotechnology youth vanguard for Imo State to nurture and empower the youth to become ambassadors of biotechnology and agents of change in their communities.
The one-day workshop with the Theme: Cultivating Tomorrow’s Agricultural Innovators: Inaugural Workshop for the Agricultural Biotechnology Youth Vanguard which was held in Owerri on Thursday was targeted at early careers and youth farmers in the state.
In his welcome address, the Director General and CEO of NBRDA, Prof. Abdullahi Mustapha, recalled that the world is facing complex challenges such as climate change, food insecurity, and healthcare disparities.
He pointed out the role of biotechnology in addressing these issues which cannot be overstated while stressing the imperative of equipping the youth with the knowledge, skills, and opportunities to leverage biotechnology for sustainable development and societal progress.
He said: “Through this conference, we aim to provide the Youth Vanguard with a platform for learning, collaboration, and advocacy. Over the course of the next few years, you will have the opportunity to engage with experts in the field, participate in hands-on activities, and develop action plans for driving biotechnology initiatives in your respective regions”.
He encouraged the youths to seize this opportunity to expand their horizons, to challenge themselves, and to envision the role they can play in shaping the future of biotechnology in Nigeria and beyond.Â
He said: “Your energy, creativity, and passion are the driving forces behind the advancement of biotechnology, and I have no doubt that you will rise to the occasion with enthusiasm and determination”.
He advised them to remain steadfast in their commitment to promote the responsible and ethical use of biotechnology for the greater good while urging them to harness the power of science and innovation to build a more sustainable, equitable, and prosperous future for all.
Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State in his address delivered by Prof Jude Nzeako, the Director General Imo State Investment Promotion Agency (ISIPA), described the occasion as a significant step to harness the transformative power of biotechnology for the benefit of Imo state and the nation.
He said: “I am deeply honoured to be invited as the special guest of honour for this auspicious event, which underscores the importance of investing in our youth and empowering them to become agents of change in the field of biotechnology”.
While commending the organizers for their vision and foresight in establishing the Biotechnology Youth Vanguard, which will serve as a platform for nurturing talent, fostering innovation, and driving progress in this critical field, the Governor stressed that biotechnology holds immense promise for addressing some of the most pressing challenges facing our society, from ensuring food security and sustainable agriculture to combating diseases and improving healthcare outcomes
He observed that by engaging the youth in the exploration and application of biotechnological solutions, the body is not only preparing them for the jobs of the future but also positioning the state as a hub of innovation and excellence in biotechnology
The Governor pledged to give full support to their endeavours even as they embark on this journey together while reminding them that it is incumbent upon the government to ensure that the benefits of biotechnology are accessible to all, especially the most vulnerable members of our society.Â
He said: “We must strive to uphold the highest ethical standards in our research and innovation efforts and to use biotechnology as a force for good in the world. In closing, I would like to extend my warmest congratulations to the inaugural members of the Biotechnology Youth Vanguard, Imo State chapter” Â
He said: “Your passion, creativity, and dedication will be the driving force behind the success of this initiative, and I am confident that you will make us proud. Together, let us harness the power of biotechnology to build a brighter future for Imo State and beyond”.
The picture showing the DG/CEO, NBRDA-Prof. Abdullahi Mustapha standing in the middle, flanked by his left hand by the Representative of the Governor of Imo State, Prof. Jude Nzeako, the members of the Biotechnology Youth Vanguard and other organizers of the workshop held in Owerri, Imo State.
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