LOS BAÑOS, Laguna (PIA) – The education sector said collaboration among the academe, government, and stakeholders are crucial in harnessing the potential of biotechnology to resolve resource problems in the country.
During the 2024 National Biotechnology Week, the Commission and Higher Education (CHED) and University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) noted the critical role of biotechnology in addressing global challenges such as food security, health, and sustainable development.
UPLB Chancellor Jose Camacho Jr. cited the university’s unwavering commitment to promoting and advancing biotechnology through cutting-edge research and knowledge-sharing with partner agencies.
“We are doing this capacity building on technology with other state universities and colleges whom we have partnership with. So on long term, biotechnology will be further enhanced in the programs and initiatives of the university,” Camacho said.
Other national government agencies also took part in the event where they recognized biotechnology as the driving force for change from medical treatments, drug development, environmental resilience, and even agriculture improvements.
Meanwhile, CHED Commissioner Marita Canapi highlighted the integral links between education, innovation, and commercialization as common collaboration grounds for the academe, government, and industry.
“The synergy of education and research with industry partnerships ensures that biotechnology innovations are not only conceptualized but also commercialized for the benefit of society,” she stated.
The NBW 2024 featured seminars, technology exhibits, workshops, and panel discussions on advancements in genetic engineering, bioenergy, and biopharmaceuticals.
Industry stakeholders also participated, showcasing products and exploring partnerships with academic and government institutions to bring biotech innovations to market. (AM, CH/PIA-4A)
