Biotechnology scientists, students, and educators from various universities received advice on using their knowledge to improve people’s lives and income. The advice came during the University Dialogue on Harnessing Biotechnology to Build a Vibrant Bio-Economy, held at Makerere University in Uganda.
Speakers at the event expressed concern about the lack of solutions to simple problems that biotechnology could address, despite the country having a significant number of biotechnologists. Professor Patrick Okori, the Executive Secretary of REFORUM, highlighted that changes in people’s eating habits due to trends like urbanization have created a demand for agricultural researchers to develop products for this changing market.
He urged lecturers to train their students to become technology producers and wealth creators instead of mere technology users. Professor Arthur Tugume, Dean of the School of Biosciences at Makerere University, emphasized the numerous opportunities available to bioscientists who are well-prepared, including the development of reliable seeds to benefit farmers for a lifetime.
