Islamabad: An International Bio-technology brainstorming workshop on animal Genomics, held at NARC under the collaboration of Animal Sciences Division, PARC & International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), Pakistan. A total number of 45 participants from 16 organizations across the country participated in the event.
Dr. Yusuf Zafar, Chairman, PARC gave an inaugural speech on historical events of bio-technology in country, global view & future vision. Dr. Masroor Elahi Babar from Virtual University presented an over view of bio-technology in animal economics in Pakistan.
Dr. Johar Ali, Member (Animal Sciences Division), PARC gave comprehensive talk on trends in animal genomics. Dr. Han Jialin, Genomics expert from China also joined the event through Skype. He delivered a detailed talk on “Livestock genetic adaptation to climate changes via – long term selection”.
Dr. Ghulam Muhammad Ali, Director General, NARC briefed about genomes research under taken by scientists of National Institute for Genomics and Advanced biotechnology (NIGAB), NARC. Ms. Ome- Kasoom Afridi from Korean University also presented a poster on “Recombinant DNA Technology & Genetic Engineering Trend in South Korea”.
In Second Technical Session of the event, all the participants were grouped based on their expertise like small ruminants, large ruminants and poultry to discuss in depth the issues, current research work & future planning / way forward in the field of animal genomics in Pakistan.
It is hoped that this workshop recommendations will be helpful for various stakeholders in the country for improving livestock production in terms of meat, milk and eggs etc. through advanced animal genomics research and development ultimately leading to food safety and security for the coming generation.