By Andi Anderson
Michigan State University (MSU) recently hosted the Global Biotechnology Symposium: Agricultural Biotech for a Better World, bringing together more than 90 participants from 19 countries. The event welcomed agricultural stakeholders, policymakers, regulators, scientists, and international development professionals to discuss the future of agricultural biotechnology and its role in solving global challenges.
The symposium began with welcome remarks from university leaders and a keynote address by Lawrence Kent, Senior Program Officer at the Gates Foundation, a leading supporter of agricultural biotechnology initiatives worldwide.
The event was organized by Dr. Karim Maredia, Associate Dean and Director of the World Agriculture Center within Michigan State University’s College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (CANR). The symposium also celebrated the 25th anniversary of the International Agricultural Biotechnology, Biosafety, and Technology Transfer Short Course. Since its launch, the program has trained participants from 97 countries, helping strengthen global agricultural knowledge and capacity.
During the event, Dr. Russ Freed, Professor Emeritus in International Agronomy, recognized Dr. Maredia’s contributions to agricultural biotechnology. Several long-time contributors were also honored, including Dr. David Douches, Professor and Leader of the Potato Breeding and Genetics Program, Dr. Cholani Weebadde, Plant Breeder for International Programs, Dr. Christy Sprague, Professor of Plant Weed Sciences, and Ms. Kelly Zarka, for their support of biotechnology education and training programs.
Discussions focused on major topics affecting agricultural biotechnology, including scientific innovation, regulations, technology transfer, commercialization, seed systems, international trade, communication, and public acceptance. Participants examined ways biotechnology can strengthen food security, promote environmental sustainability, support economic growth, and improve livelihoods around the world.
A key highlight of the symposium was the work of the Global Biotech Potato Partnership (GBPP), a collaboration among Michigan State University, the International Potato Center (CIP), and the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF). The partnership is developing disease-resistant potatoes through genetic engineering to support farmers in developing regions.
Participants also toured potato breeding research plots led by Dr. David Douches, where genetically engineered potato varieties were showcased. In addition, visitors explored herbicide-tolerant sugar beet technologies presented by Dr. Christy Sprague. Demonstrations highlighted the effectiveness of advanced weed-control traits and their potential benefits for crop production.
The symposium further highlighted educational initiatives led by Dr. Cholani Weebadde, including Michigan State University’s Global Plant Breeding Online Master's program, which helps build international expertise in modern plant breeding and biotechnology.
Overall, the event emphasized the growing importance of agricultural biotechnology in addressing food production challenges, supporting sustainable farming practices, and improving global agricultural systems through innovation, education, and international collaboration.
Photo Credit: michigan-state-university-msu
Categories: Michigan, General