Topic 4: Addressing capacity-building needs
Dr Gretta Abou-Sleymane,
Lebanon#11948
Lebanon#11948
منذ ٣ أعوام
Dear Colleagues,
Welcome to the online discussions of the Network of Laboratories for the Detection and Identification of Living Modified Organisms.
My name is Gretta Abou Sleymane. I work at the LMOs/GMOs testing laboratory in Lebanon and I am glad to moderate topic 4 of the online discussions of the Network of Laboratories for the Detection and Identification of Living Modified Organisms.
At its tenth meeting, the COP-MOP adopted a new Implementation Plan and Capacity-building Action Plan in decisions CP-10/3 and CP-10/4, respectively. Further, in decision CP-10/11 on detection and identification of living modified organisms, the COP-MOP noted goals A.6 to A.8 in both plans and the related capacity-building activities. Some of the activities, among others, include providing training on: LMO documentation, sampling, detection and identification to relevant stakeholders; monitoring of illegal transboundary movement of LMOs; handling, transport, packaging, and identification of LMOs to relevant competent national authorities; and methodologies and protocols for sampling, detection and identification of LMOs. In addition, the COP-MOP also identified facilitating access to and establish infrastructure for detection and identification of LMOs, including accredited laboratories, certified reference materials and consumables, and establishing, strengthening and maintaining networks of laboratories for LMO detection and identification as relevant capacity-building activities.
Furthermore, in decision CP-10/11, the COP-MOP recognized the need for capacity-building activities on new detection techniques, as well as on detecting and identifying unauthorized living modified organisms. With this in mind, participants are kindly invited to share information on the following points:
- What are the capacity-building needs, particularly for newly developed and unauthorized LMOs?
- What could be concrete solutions for addressing these needs?
- In your opinion, what is the most effective measure that could be taken to address gaps in capacity?
I look forward to your valuable interventions.
Gretta Abou-Sleymane
Welcome to the online discussions of the Network of Laboratories for the Detection and Identification of Living Modified Organisms.
My name is Gretta Abou Sleymane. I work at the LMOs/GMOs testing laboratory in Lebanon and I am glad to moderate topic 4 of the online discussions of the Network of Laboratories for the Detection and Identification of Living Modified Organisms.
At its tenth meeting, the COP-MOP adopted a new Implementation Plan and Capacity-building Action Plan in decisions CP-10/3 and CP-10/4, respectively. Further, in decision CP-10/11 on detection and identification of living modified organisms, the COP-MOP noted goals A.6 to A.8 in both plans and the related capacity-building activities. Some of the activities, among others, include providing training on: LMO documentation, sampling, detection and identification to relevant stakeholders; monitoring of illegal transboundary movement of LMOs; handling, transport, packaging, and identification of LMOs to relevant competent national authorities; and methodologies and protocols for sampling, detection and identification of LMOs. In addition, the COP-MOP also identified facilitating access to and establish infrastructure for detection and identification of LMOs, including accredited laboratories, certified reference materials and consumables, and establishing, strengthening and maintaining networks of laboratories for LMO detection and identification as relevant capacity-building activities.
Furthermore, in decision CP-10/11, the COP-MOP recognized the need for capacity-building activities on new detection techniques, as well as on detecting and identifying unauthorized living modified organisms. With this in mind, participants are kindly invited to share information on the following points:
- What are the capacity-building needs, particularly for newly developed and unauthorized LMOs?
- What could be concrete solutions for addressing these needs?
- In your opinion, what is the most effective measure that could be taken to address gaps in capacity?
I look forward to your valuable interventions.
Gretta Abou-Sleymane
1. What are the capacity-building needs, particularly for newly developed and unauthorized LMOs?
- We need the policy of Department of Fisheries. I have the experince and knowledge about GMOs detection but the tools and equipment in my laboratory cannot support.
2. What could be concrete solutions for addressing these needs?
- The policy of Government and research budget.
3. In your opinion, what is the most effective measure that could be taken to address gaps in capacity?
- the trainning Workshops and government/Department of Fisheries to support.
- We need the policy of Department of Fisheries. I have the experince and knowledge about GMOs detection but the tools and equipment in my laboratory cannot support.
2. What could be concrete solutions for addressing these needs?
- The policy of Government and research budget.
3. In your opinion, what is the most effective measure that could be taken to address gaps in capacity?
- the trainning Workshops and government/Department of Fisheries to support.
Dear All,
I hope that we will have an insightful discussion this week.
Waiting for your valuable recommendations.
All the best
I hope that we will have an insightful discussion this week.
Waiting for your valuable recommendations.
All the best
Dear Mr Pannusa,
Thank yo for your feedback.
I will compile all comments in a final document by the end of the week.
All the best
Thank yo for your feedback.
I will compile all comments in a final document by the end of the week.
All the best
Through this Network of detection, ideas have been shared on the best approaches in GM detection including the adoption of new and emerging techniques. But for some countries like mine, we are barely started on the real time PCR and every day waking up to the realization of all these tool that can be utilized.
GM detection should not be a costly affair but rather done routinely and sustainably. GM quantification remains a challenge for us due to inadequate capacity. Training opportunities and networking to share experiences will go a long way.
GM detection should not be a costly affair but rather done routinely and sustainably. GM quantification remains a challenge for us due to inadequate capacity. Training opportunities and networking to share experiences will go a long way.
1. What are the capacity-building needs, particularly for newly developed and unauthorized LMOs?
Answer: Detection techniques/methods (both qualitative and quantitative) for newly developed LMOs
2. What could be concrete solutions for addressing these needs?
Answer: a. Development of the Methods b. Ensuring the availability of the CRMs c. Competence building of laboratory personnel on detection, identification and quantification of the newly developed LMOs, Training on Method validation (including all performance characteristics) , estimation of Measurement Uncertainty, Decision rule of the laboratory on acceptance and rejection of the LMOs.
3. In your opinion, what is the most effective measure that could be taken to address gaps in capacity?
Answer: To have a common platform where we can get answers to our technical questions or to provide the technical guidance in resolving the issues faced in the laboratory.
Answer: Detection techniques/methods (both qualitative and quantitative) for newly developed LMOs
2. What could be concrete solutions for addressing these needs?
Answer: a. Development of the Methods b. Ensuring the availability of the CRMs c. Competence building of laboratory personnel on detection, identification and quantification of the newly developed LMOs, Training on Method validation (including all performance characteristics) , estimation of Measurement Uncertainty, Decision rule of the laboratory on acceptance and rejection of the LMOs.
3. In your opinion, what is the most effective measure that could be taken to address gaps in capacity?
Answer: To have a common platform where we can get answers to our technical questions or to provide the technical guidance in resolving the issues faced in the laboratory.
Dear Ms Njagi,
Thank you for your valuable comments both in topics 3 and 4.
Indeed, capacity-building trainings should be targeted to specific countries/regions/laboratories needs.
I hope that we will be able to categorize the different needs by the end of the week.
Kind Regards
Thank you for your valuable comments both in topics 3 and 4.
Indeed, capacity-building trainings should be targeted to specific countries/regions/laboratories needs.
I hope that we will be able to categorize the different needs by the end of the week.
Kind Regards
Thank you again Ms Wangmo,
I believe that creating a common platform is a great idea; it has been discussed previously and we should find the best host/format to keep it updated.
All the best
I believe that creating a common platform is a great idea; it has been discussed previously and we should find the best host/format to keep it updated.
All the best
Topic 4: Addressing capacity building need
I am Dr. Bughe Rhoda Nsen, lecturer and manager of the Food and Drug Safety Laboratory, at the Biotechnology center, University of Yaounde 1, Cameroon.
- What are the capacity –building needs particularly for newly developed and unauthorized LMOs
Answer: Re-enforcing capacity strengthening through the organization of training workshops for hand-on skills and knowledge for detection and identification of LMOs at the entry points, local markets as well as the laboratories.
- What could be concrete solutions for addressing these needs
Answer: A major challenge is the limited personnel with the skills and knowledge on LMOs detection and identification at the ports of entry as well as the laboratory. As of now, certain entry ports have limited personnel who are not well equipped and do not possess adequate knowledge in the detection of LMOs. In the laboratories, there are limited laboratory staff usually complemented by research students who have the tendency to move out once they are done with their research. Hence leaving the laboratories with the staffing problems. In order to address these challenges, there is a need for periodic and on-the-spot training of operational personnel at the ports of entry on the detection of LMOs and the use of detection kits. At the level of the laboratories, there is a need to periodically strengthen the capacity of laboratory personnel on innovations in the domain of biosafety and on modern detection techniques of LMOs to ensure an efficient mechanism for detection. Furthermore, the institutional capacities of laboratories should be strengthened via the procurement of up-to-date and functional laboratory equipment to enable them detects LMOs using modern techniques.
- In your opinion , what is the most effective measure that could be taken to addressing gaps in capacity
Answer: The organization of capacity strengthening activities will greatly help in resolving the challenges encountered. Furthermore, the establishment of a network of laboratories will ensure knowledge transfer and experience sharing amongst countries. Lastly, countries should be encouraged to setup up-to-date and functional laboratories to ensure compliance with international requirements (biosafety levels etc.). The mainstreaming of biosafety (detection techniques of LMOs) into the national educational system may also in the long run ensure that experts and specialists in the domain are trained to handle the detection, diagnostics and monitoring of LMOs.
I am Dr. Bughe Rhoda Nsen, lecturer and manager of the Food and Drug Safety Laboratory, at the Biotechnology center, University of Yaounde 1, Cameroon.
- What are the capacity –building needs particularly for newly developed and unauthorized LMOs
Answer: Re-enforcing capacity strengthening through the organization of training workshops for hand-on skills and knowledge for detection and identification of LMOs at the entry points, local markets as well as the laboratories.
- What could be concrete solutions for addressing these needs
Answer: A major challenge is the limited personnel with the skills and knowledge on LMOs detection and identification at the ports of entry as well as the laboratory. As of now, certain entry ports have limited personnel who are not well equipped and do not possess adequate knowledge in the detection of LMOs. In the laboratories, there are limited laboratory staff usually complemented by research students who have the tendency to move out once they are done with their research. Hence leaving the laboratories with the staffing problems. In order to address these challenges, there is a need for periodic and on-the-spot training of operational personnel at the ports of entry on the detection of LMOs and the use of detection kits. At the level of the laboratories, there is a need to periodically strengthen the capacity of laboratory personnel on innovations in the domain of biosafety and on modern detection techniques of LMOs to ensure an efficient mechanism for detection. Furthermore, the institutional capacities of laboratories should be strengthened via the procurement of up-to-date and functional laboratory equipment to enable them detects LMOs using modern techniques.
- In your opinion , what is the most effective measure that could be taken to addressing gaps in capacity
Answer: The organization of capacity strengthening activities will greatly help in resolving the challenges encountered. Furthermore, the establishment of a network of laboratories will ensure knowledge transfer and experience sharing amongst countries. Lastly, countries should be encouraged to setup up-to-date and functional laboratories to ensure compliance with international requirements (biosafety levels etc.). The mainstreaming of biosafety (detection techniques of LMOs) into the national educational system may also in the long run ensure that experts and specialists in the domain are trained to handle the detection, diagnostics and monitoring of LMOs.
Dear Dr Bughe Rhoda Nsen,
Thank you for the comprehensive reply.
I hope we will get a clear understanding of capacity-building needs from all colleagues before the end of the online discussions.
All the best
Thank you for the comprehensive reply.
I hope we will get a clear understanding of capacity-building needs from all colleagues before the end of the online discussions.
All the best
For Malawi, capacity building needs include hands-on training of the laboratory scientists and technicians in qualitative and quantitative GMO analysis preferably using the newly developed techniques. One training area of interest is approaches to minimize cross contamination during sample preparation and processing (especially where samples are self-collected). As a country we need capacity building in getting our lab accredited including acquisition of certified reference materials. Currently, there is no capacity in qualitative and quantitative analysis of unauthorized LMOs.
Organised hands-on training (long term and short term) and visits to advanced laboratories would be concrete solution for addressing these needs. As a measure to address the capacity gaps, regional hubs housing referral LMO testing centers may be instituted to act as learning centers. Among others, such centers would host, refresher trainings, proficiency testing and instrumentation.
Organised hands-on training (long term and short term) and visits to advanced laboratories would be concrete solution for addressing these needs. As a measure to address the capacity gaps, regional hubs housing referral LMO testing centers may be instituted to act as learning centers. Among others, such centers would host, refresher trainings, proficiency testing and instrumentation.
Dear colleagues,
My name is Daniela Wahler. I work for the German Federal Office of Consumer Protection and Food Safety (BVL). I would like to echo on previous posts, especially from Ms. Julia Njagi, Kenya #11965 and Ms. Galina Mozgova, Belarus #11981 (topic 1). New techniques will improve the detection and identification of LMO and, in some specific cases, make it possible in the first place. However, the new techniques are still at the stage of research and development and might not be feasible for application in routine control activities in all countries. Therefore, I would like to emphasize that the community of Parties to the Cartagena Protocol should seek approaches for the detection and identification of LMO that can be implemented in all Parties, focusing on routinely used easily applicable methods.
Furthermore, networking among Parties should be strengthened. One approach is through capacity-building actions such as done at the International Conference on GMO Analysis and New Genomic Techniques (https://www.bfr-akademie.de/english/archive/2023/gmo2023.html) held in Berlin, Germany in spring 2023.
Daniela
My name is Daniela Wahler. I work for the German Federal Office of Consumer Protection and Food Safety (BVL). I would like to echo on previous posts, especially from Ms. Julia Njagi, Kenya #11965 and Ms. Galina Mozgova, Belarus #11981 (topic 1). New techniques will improve the detection and identification of LMO and, in some specific cases, make it possible in the first place. However, the new techniques are still at the stage of research and development and might not be feasible for application in routine control activities in all countries. Therefore, I would like to emphasize that the community of Parties to the Cartagena Protocol should seek approaches for the detection and identification of LMO that can be implemented in all Parties, focusing on routinely used easily applicable methods.
Furthermore, networking among Parties should be strengthened. One approach is through capacity-building actions such as done at the International Conference on GMO Analysis and New Genomic Techniques (https://www.bfr-akademie.de/english/archive/2023/gmo2023.html) held in Berlin, Germany in spring 2023.
Daniela
Dear Ms Wahler,
I agree that a general common capacity building training should be a priority.
Workshops tailored to the specific situation of each laboratory/country could be developed as a second stage.
Thank you again
I agree that a general common capacity building training should be a priority.
Workshops tailored to the specific situation of each laboratory/country could be developed as a second stage.
Thank you again
My name is Josephine Amedu with the National Biosafety Management Agency, Nigeria. I thank Dr. Gretta Abou-Sleymane for moderating this session and thank colleagues for your insightful contributions.
I agree with Daniella that Parties to the Protocol should focus on routinely used and easily applicable methods as discussed at the International Conference on GMO Analysis and New Genomic Techniques that held in Berlin, earlier this year.
A drawback to this however is that these methods that may be routinely applicable in some regions are not readily accessible in other regions, as pointed out by several colleagues (Ms. Julia, Mr. Andrew). In Nigeria, we have identified the need to build capacity in qPCR,Digital PCR and Sequencing as it relates to detection of GMOs.
I also echo the thoughts of Ms. Julia, that GMO detection should not be a costly affair and should be routinely sustainable. A major source of cost to GMO detection is the procurement of reagents, kits and consumables for detection, especially in Africa. Can capacity be built on developing Africa-based detection kits?
Are they strategies that can be employed or partnerships to be fostered in reducing costs from procurement?
Thank you for the opportunity to share these thoughts.
Josephine.
I agree with Daniella that Parties to the Protocol should focus on routinely used and easily applicable methods as discussed at the International Conference on GMO Analysis and New Genomic Techniques that held in Berlin, earlier this year.
A drawback to this however is that these methods that may be routinely applicable in some regions are not readily accessible in other regions, as pointed out by several colleagues (Ms. Julia, Mr. Andrew). In Nigeria, we have identified the need to build capacity in qPCR,Digital PCR and Sequencing as it relates to detection of GMOs.
I also echo the thoughts of Ms. Julia, that GMO detection should not be a costly affair and should be routinely sustainable. A major source of cost to GMO detection is the procurement of reagents, kits and consumables for detection, especially in Africa. Can capacity be built on developing Africa-based detection kits?
Are they strategies that can be employed or partnerships to be fostered in reducing costs from procurement?
Thank you for the opportunity to share these thoughts.
Josephine.
Dear colleagues,
My name is Emmanuel González-Ortega. I’m trained in Biotechnology (Engineering, Ms Sc, PhD), and I have expertise in LMO detection and identification, biosafety governance, molecular biology, risk assessment, socioeconomic considerations of LMO, synthetic biology. Our research group have investigated and published on the presence of unauthorized genetically modified maize in several Mexican regions, and on the presence of genetically modified maize in highly consumed food manufactured with maize in Mexico. I have previously participated in several fora in the Cartagena Protocol of the CBD. I would like to thank the Secretariat of the CBD for the organization of the on-line forum of the Network of Laboratories for the Detection and Identification of Living Modified Organisms and for the opportunity to participate in this discussion.
Regarding topic 4 [#11948], here are my considerations.
Currently, Mexico is at a crossroads regarding the situation of genetically modified maize in the context of a trilateral trade agreement with the United States and Canada. Part of the discussion argues for scientific evidence, which indirectly includes the capabilities and processes related to the detection and identification of LMO. To my knowledge, few laboratories - specifically academic ones – currently perform activities related to LMO detection and identification activities within the framework of scientific research projects funded by the Mexican Ministry of Science. Although Mexican regulation contemplates the creation and operation of a network of LMO detection laboratories, it is inoperative.
It is necessary to update LMO detection techniques (first generation and new generation) (See Post [#12020]) In Mexico, there are no installed capacities to carry out detection and identification activities of new LMOs or unauthorized LMOs.
Actions and solutions
It would be pertinent to hold courses and workshops at the national and regional level in Latin America (inter-laboratories) focused on updating and consolidating LMO detection techniques (first generation and new generation). Training of personnel in aspects of bioinformatics and analysis of genomic information is required.
In my opinion, the most effective way to meet these needs is to hold regional courses and workshops, where trained personnel (scientists, technicians, personnel from the companies that provide the equipment and detection protocols) carry out technical update workshops on the procedures. LMO detection.
Best regards,
Emmanuel.
My name is Emmanuel González-Ortega. I’m trained in Biotechnology (Engineering, Ms Sc, PhD), and I have expertise in LMO detection and identification, biosafety governance, molecular biology, risk assessment, socioeconomic considerations of LMO, synthetic biology. Our research group have investigated and published on the presence of unauthorized genetically modified maize in several Mexican regions, and on the presence of genetically modified maize in highly consumed food manufactured with maize in Mexico. I have previously participated in several fora in the Cartagena Protocol of the CBD. I would like to thank the Secretariat of the CBD for the organization of the on-line forum of the Network of Laboratories for the Detection and Identification of Living Modified Organisms and for the opportunity to participate in this discussion.
Regarding topic 4 [#11948], here are my considerations.
Currently, Mexico is at a crossroads regarding the situation of genetically modified maize in the context of a trilateral trade agreement with the United States and Canada. Part of the discussion argues for scientific evidence, which indirectly includes the capabilities and processes related to the detection and identification of LMO. To my knowledge, few laboratories - specifically academic ones – currently perform activities related to LMO detection and identification activities within the framework of scientific research projects funded by the Mexican Ministry of Science. Although Mexican regulation contemplates the creation and operation of a network of LMO detection laboratories, it is inoperative.
It is necessary to update LMO detection techniques (first generation and new generation) (See Post [#12020]) In Mexico, there are no installed capacities to carry out detection and identification activities of new LMOs or unauthorized LMOs.
Actions and solutions
It would be pertinent to hold courses and workshops at the national and regional level in Latin America (inter-laboratories) focused on updating and consolidating LMO detection techniques (first generation and new generation). Training of personnel in aspects of bioinformatics and analysis of genomic information is required.
In my opinion, the most effective way to meet these needs is to hold regional courses and workshops, where trained personnel (scientists, technicians, personnel from the companies that provide the equipment and detection protocols) carry out technical update workshops on the procedures. LMO detection.
Best regards,
Emmanuel.
From the perspective of the National Reference Center for Agri-Food Safety and Biosafety of the Ministry of Agriculture in Mexico, the following has been identified: - What are the capacity building needs, particularly for newly developed and unauthorized LMOs? A) A special focus is required on methods for detecting and identifying newly developed LMOs that do not include elements such as p35SCaMV, pFMV and tNOS within their genetic constructs. B) Training actions for quantification of LMOs using real-time PCR and digital PCR. C) Creation of capacities for the generation of certified reference materials according to the analytical needs of the region/country. - What could be concrete solutions to address these needs? A) The formation of technical capabilities could be promoted through collaborations established between the various laboratories in the BCH network. Collaborations would allow laboratories to share their strengths and experiences with those laboratories that are in the process of analytical development and implementation. B) Generation of technical manuals for the detection, identification and quantification of LMOs using various molecular techniques. - In your opinion, what is the most effective measure that could be taken to address capacity gaps? In accordance with what was previously commented by Ms Dechen Wangmo of Bhutan Agriculture and Food Regulatory Authority (BAFRA), a technical doubt resolution platform would facilitate access to specific information on the routine analysis of LMOs.
I am FOKA TATIEKAM EBENEZER, a PhD student, Laboratory of phytoprotection and Valorization of Genetic Resources, Biotechnological Center, University of Yaoundé 1, Cameroon.
In Cameroon LMO detection and identification lack regulatory environment. Laboratoires have final point PCR, RT-PCR equipments and LAMP, LMO can be detected but WE have insufficiently trained personnel, Lack of physical resources and access to consumables
Concrete solutions may be to: provide training on LMO documentation, sampling, detection and identification to relevant stakeholders;
Facilitate the development of a regulatory environment in the Country ;
Facilitate specialise laboratory to update their equipments.
In Cameroon LMO detection and identification lack regulatory environment. Laboratoires have final point PCR, RT-PCR equipments and LAMP, LMO can be detected but WE have insufficiently trained personnel, Lack of physical resources and access to consumables
Concrete solutions may be to: provide training on LMO documentation, sampling, detection and identification to relevant stakeholders;
Facilitate the development of a regulatory environment in the Country ;
Facilitate specialise laboratory to update their equipments.
Dear Colleagues,
thank you very much for your moderation and oportunity to join this discussion thread.
I work at the public research institute in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina that is also a tech development and transfer center for various detection methods including LMO's on demand. We have the molecular genetic laboratory infrastructure and expertise in endpoint PCR, qtPCR, digital PCR, Sanger sequencing, NGS and next year we would introduce microarray technique (per protocol, customization and/or development). We have undertaken several studies on presence of GMO, risk assessment procedures on demand.
This public research infrastructure can be employed for the standardization, training and transfer to the LMO testing laboratories in country.
Our professional opinion is that capacity building should be done in the direction of the novel biotechnologies and risk/benefit assessment strategies in the light of new discoveries and its efficient application and endorsement. For that purpose a Network of Laboratories for the Detection and Identification of Living Modified Organisms could extend the scope of developing training sessions and instructions. Consolidation of the Network as a Platform of exchange based on shared challenges of its network could be a good start for capacity gaps overriding.
Many regards from Sarajevo,
Lejla Pojskic
thank you very much for your moderation and oportunity to join this discussion thread.
I work at the public research institute in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina that is also a tech development and transfer center for various detection methods including LMO's on demand. We have the molecular genetic laboratory infrastructure and expertise in endpoint PCR, qtPCR, digital PCR, Sanger sequencing, NGS and next year we would introduce microarray technique (per protocol, customization and/or development). We have undertaken several studies on presence of GMO, risk assessment procedures on demand.
This public research infrastructure can be employed for the standardization, training and transfer to the LMO testing laboratories in country.
Our professional opinion is that capacity building should be done in the direction of the novel biotechnologies and risk/benefit assessment strategies in the light of new discoveries and its efficient application and endorsement. For that purpose a Network of Laboratories for the Detection and Identification of Living Modified Organisms could extend the scope of developing training sessions and instructions. Consolidation of the Network as a Platform of exchange based on shared challenges of its network could be a good start for capacity gaps overriding.
Many regards from Sarajevo,
Lejla Pojskic
The capacity building needs for detection of LMOs in Kenya have not been met as most labs can only screen for 35S and NOS with few lab with the capacity to quantify LMOs. To address the current limitations and foster harmonization, consider the following improvements:
Develop comprehensive training programs for laboratory personnel involved in LMO detection. This should cover a broad range of detection methods beyond just screening for 35S and NOS.
Establish standardized protocols for LMO detection that are recognized and adopted nationally. This ensures consistency and comparability of results across different labs. Collaborate with regional and international bodies to align detection methods, minimizing disparities.
Implement quality assurance programs to ensure the reliability and accuracy of LMO detection results. Work towards obtaining accreditation for laboratories to meet international standards, fostering confidence in the results generated.
Facilitate technology transfer from advanced laboratories to those in Kenya. This could involve partnerships with institutions possessing advanced equipment and expertise.
Regards,
Lilian
Develop comprehensive training programs for laboratory personnel involved in LMO detection. This should cover a broad range of detection methods beyond just screening for 35S and NOS.
Establish standardized protocols for LMO detection that are recognized and adopted nationally. This ensures consistency and comparability of results across different labs. Collaborate with regional and international bodies to align detection methods, minimizing disparities.
Implement quality assurance programs to ensure the reliability and accuracy of LMO detection results. Work towards obtaining accreditation for laboratories to meet international standards, fostering confidence in the results generated.
Facilitate technology transfer from advanced laboratories to those in Kenya. This could involve partnerships with institutions possessing advanced equipment and expertise.
Regards,
Lilian
Dear colleagues,
My name is Nancy Serrano-Silva, affiliated with the Executive Secretariat of the Intersecretarial Commission for the Biosafety of Genetically Modified Organisms in Mexico.
The creation and consolidation of the Network of Laboratories for the Detection and Identification of Modified Living Organisms are crucial to strengthen biosafety, foster scientific collaboration among institutions, enabling the optimization of resources, standardization of protocols, and continuous improvement of technical capabilities. It is a key response to current demands related to the evolving genetic technologies of LMOs. I consider it a priority to focus efforts on the following points:
Allocation of resources for the installation of infrastructure, equipment, and acquisition of necessary supplies for the effective implementation of first-generation and next-generation LMO detection and identification technologies.
Urgent organization of courses and workshops addressing training and updates in molecular techniques for the detection and analysis of LMOs, promoted by entities such as the Biosafety Clearing House.
Promotion of discussion forums on the governance of biosafety for new GMOs, ensuring equitable participation of all nations, regardless of their level of economic or technological development.
Thank you for your attention and the opportunity to participate in this valuable forum.
All the best,
Nancy
My name is Nancy Serrano-Silva, affiliated with the Executive Secretariat of the Intersecretarial Commission for the Biosafety of Genetically Modified Organisms in Mexico.
The creation and consolidation of the Network of Laboratories for the Detection and Identification of Modified Living Organisms are crucial to strengthen biosafety, foster scientific collaboration among institutions, enabling the optimization of resources, standardization of protocols, and continuous improvement of technical capabilities. It is a key response to current demands related to the evolving genetic technologies of LMOs. I consider it a priority to focus efforts on the following points:
Allocation of resources for the installation of infrastructure, equipment, and acquisition of necessary supplies for the effective implementation of first-generation and next-generation LMO detection and identification technologies.
Urgent organization of courses and workshops addressing training and updates in molecular techniques for the detection and analysis of LMOs, promoted by entities such as the Biosafety Clearing House.
Promotion of discussion forums on the governance of biosafety for new GMOs, ensuring equitable participation of all nations, regardless of their level of economic or technological development.
Thank you for your attention and the opportunity to participate in this valuable forum.
All the best,
Nancy
