Biotech Information Centers Meeting 2013

The Annual Meeting of ISAAAs Biotechnology Information Centers (BICs) was held on April 4 to 5, 2013 at Le Soleil de Boracay, Aklan, Philippines. Dr. Randy Hautea, Global Coordinator of ISAAA, gave the opening message to the group, emphasizing on the latest developments in the network and the challenges to be addressed this year. Dr. C.D. Mayee, ISAAA Board Member, delivered the keynote message discussing the developments in biotech crops which must be paralleled with stronger communication strategies to be initiated by ISAAA and the BICs.

Representatives from 15 participating countries from Asia, Africa, and Latin America presented the knowledge sharing initiatives and science communication strategies they have implemented in the past year to foster greater understanding of biotechnology in their countries. The group likewise discussed ways to improve the reach of ISAAA and the BICs in their own countries.

ISAAAs network of BICs and its Global Knowledge Center on Crop Biotechnology develops communication modalities, pursue partnerships, and implement need-based programs for biotechnology communication. The joint efforts have paved the way for a positive environment that encourages transparent debate and consensus on crop biotech.

For more information, send an email to knowledgecenter@isaaa.org.

Iran Biotechnology Information Center (IrBIC) participated in this meeting and presented its accomplishments and implemented strategies in 2012.