Abuja: The African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD) emphasizes the crucial role of young scientists in research, advocacy, and policy development for genome editing as a pathway to sustainable agriculture in Africa. Prof. Olalekan Akinbo, leading the Genome Editing Initiative at AUDA-NEPAD Centre of Excellence in Science, Technology and Innovation, highlighted these insights during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, genome editing (GEd) encompasses a group of technologies empowering scientists to modify an organism’s DNA. These tools allow breeders to implement specific changes within the genome of a target organism. Akinbo expressed concerns that failing to engage young scientists in GEd could affect the research trajectory in Africa, especially amidst the continent’s pressing food insecurity challenges.
Akinbo noted that excluding youth from GEd initiatives might impede the acceptance and adoption of such technologies, as young individuals represent a significant demographic dividend. He pointed out that nearly 40 percent of people aged 15 to 24 in Africa are active online, shaping narratives in digital spaces. AUDA-NEPAD’s policy framework for GEd application in African agriculture underscores the importance of youth inclusiveness in policy formulation and implementation.
He further stated that future leaders in the scientific community must recognize the significance of research in advancing society while ensuring environmental sustainability. Modern biotechnology, particularly GEd, has the potential to create innovative solutions that address climate change, enhance agriculture, improve food security, and promote human and animal welfare. Akinbo emphasized the importance of cultivating the application of these benefits alongside fostering a passion for knowledge among the next generation of scientists.