The Vice-Chancellor of the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Prof. Maduebibisi Ofo Iwe has stated that his administration is aiming toward making the University the hub of biotechnology in Nigeria. The VC, represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Udo Herbert, made the remark on Wednesday at the opening ceremony of the 2022 Hands-on Training on Molecular Biology Techniques, organized by the University’s Centre for Molecular Biology Biosciences and Molecular Biology (CMBB).
In his address at the event, the VC described biosciences and biotechnology as prerequisites for the country’s development. He noted that the University’s recent moves to expand the CMBB are geared toward making the University a hub for biosciences and biotechnology in Nigeria. He advised participants at the training to make optimal use of the opportunity and to equip themselves with the practical knowledge they need to excel in the field.
Earlier, the Director of CMBB, Prof. Irene Ijei, in her opening address disclosed that the training was aimed at bridging the gap between theory and the practical aspects of Molecular Biology. According to the director, the 2-day hands-on training would provide participants with relevant knowledge and skills in best practices in standard molecular techniques.
Speaking at the event, the Executive Director of the National Root Crop Research Institute (NRCRI), Prof. C.N. Egesi, who was represented by Dr. Alfred Ubalua, described biotechnology as a technology of the 21st century can be harnessed optimally to improve Nigeria’s agriculture and health sectors.
In his goodwill message, the Director of the University’s Directorate of University Research Administration (DURA), Prof. K.J. Simonyan noted that the hands-on training is the right step towards addressing the over-emphasis on theories which he described as one of the major challenges bedeviling Nigeria’s advancement in science and technology. Prof. Simonyan commended the Centre for her efforts in biosciences and urged her to make the training a continuous exercise.
On his part, the Director of the University’s Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES), Prof. Nelson Onwuka noted that given adequate support, CMBB can drive the latest advancements in science such as the development of healthy food in laboratories, as a way of solving Nigeria’s food problems. He commended the Director for her exemplary leadership.
Resource persons at the 2-day hands-on training include Prof. Ada Iwueke and Dr. Obinna Adumanya, biochemists from the University of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences (UAES), Umuagwo, Imo State.
Participants will be led through different molecular biology techniques including DNA basics and extraction; gel casting; gel viewing and documentation, amongst others.