IITA partners with Cornell University and University of Ghana to train on Genome editing
12 February 2020
Genome editing is a new tool, which can be used to improve crop yield and/or resistance to pests and diseases. IITA is at the forefront of genome editing research in Africa under the leadership of principal scientist, Leena Tripathi. Unlike biotechnology, which has faced a lot of resistance especially in the policy arena, Tripathi is hopeful that genome-edited products will not be regulated which will enable them to reach farmers and eventually consumers. “Most counties are not regulating genome-edited products so we hope that they will not be regulated in Africa as well,” Tripathi, who is the Deputy Director of IITA’s Eastern African hub says in a video interview. Genome editing, just like other innovations and practices seeks to contribute to feeding and nourishing a growing population. According to projections from the UN Population Division report, the population of sub-Saharan Africa is projected to double by 2050. These people need to feed and tools such as genome editing can make a contribution. Interested in participating, apply now.