On 26 September 2022, Training Workshop organized by the Islamic Organization for Food Security (IOFS) in cooperation with the General Directorate of Agricultural Research, as well as Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA) on Gene Bank Management was held in Ankara, Turkiye.
The opening ceremony was attended by the IOFS Director General H.E. Prof. Yerlan A. Baidaulet, TAGEM Director General, H.E. Dr. Metin Türker, TIKA Vice President, H.E. Dr Rahman Nurdun with participation of the African and Asian plant genetic resources professionals from Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Gambia, Guinea Bissau, Kazakhstan, Mozambique, Nigeria, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan.
The purpose of the training is to present and familiarize participants with the management of gene banks and germplasm collections from acquisition to registration, regeneration, conservation, characterization, distribution, and documentation. 5-days workshop consists of theoretical courses, presentations, and practical sessions under the guidance of qualified trainers.
IOFS Director General during his welcoming statement emphasized the importance of continued actions and constant developments towards improving conservation of genetic resources in the OIC Member Countries through joint actions. Exchange of experience and knowledge sharing will contribute to establish a cooperation prospect that would promote common interests of member countries.
TIKA Vice President has also underlined the significant role of biodiversity for the commodity production and agriculture sector, as it enhances food security, livelihoods, health and environment. To pursue Zero Hunger level and the Sustainable Development Goals, countries are urged to apply more decisive actions towards conservation and sustainability.
Participants had an opportunity to visit Seed Gene Bank of Turkiye and get acquainted with activities of the Institution and its advanced technologies.
