07-18 October 2024 (Los Banos, Laguna) - Genebanks hold a lifeline to the future. To ensure their operational sustainability for generations, the Fit for Future Genetic Resources (FFGR) Unit at IRRI, Biodiversity for Opportunities, Livelihoods and Development project of the Global Crop Diversity Trust (BOLD-GCDT), Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF), CGIAR Genebank Initiative, and the Mexican Government sponsored a Capacity Development and Knowledge Exchange Training. The goal is to empower staff of national genebanks in key areas, including seed characterization, multiplication, germplasm handling, and data management, aligning with FAO’s standards for genebank operations. The training was conducted by the team of Dr. Venuprasad Ramaiah, unit leader of FFGR.
The program offered comprehensive training on the regeneration, characterization, and conservation of cultivated and crop wild relatives. Data management in all the genebank operations (i.e., seed acquisition to seed distribution) was also covered in the training. After short lectures and demonstrations, participants could do hands-on sessions in the field, screen house, and laboratory. Topics covered include seed viability testing, data management systems, and new technologies like the DiGI app, as well as gaining practical skills in seed storage, risk management, and genetic evaluation techniques. Through these activities, participants were equipped with knowledge and tools to increase efficiency in operations and improve their genebank practices, ultimately contributing to regional sustainable production of staple and valuable crops.
The JAIF project, led by Dr. Mary Jean Du, Breeding Lead for Southeast Asia at IRRI, funded eight of the thirty-one participants from 17 organizations in 11 countries - South Asia: Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Pakistan; Southeast Asia: Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar, Philippines, and Vietnam; North America: Mexico; and Africa: Tanzania and Uganda.
The training output contributes to the outcome of the BOLD-GCDT project to ensure the long-term security of valuable genetic resources globally and foster a conducive international partnership in genetic resource management. For JAIF, its support aligns with its overarching mission to promote sustainable development and strengthen the integration of ASEAN countries by reinforcing its commitment to enhance regional cooperation in agricultural research and genetic resource management, fostering greater knowledge exchange, and building capacity.
The post-training assessment showed that participants significantly improved their knowledge and skills. Many reported better abilities in seed management, regeneration, and data management. Overall, participants were very satisfied with the course content and how it was taught. They praised the trainers for their clear presentations, ability to connect with the group, and for addressing the participants’ expectations for the training. There was also a positive change in how participants viewed the importance of genebanks and conservation efforts. Some suggested that future training should emphasize risk management, wild rice conservation, and GGCE (Grin Global Community Edition), and include other topics like collection of germplasm, SMTA (Standard Material Transfer Agreement), policy agreements, and seed health.
Participants expressed appreciation for the training and a strong desire to implement their newly acquired knowledge and skills in their countries. Many were interested in pursuing additional training opportunities to further their professional development.
The invaluable support from the funders played a key role in facilitating this exchange, which enhanced individual capacities and promoted collaboration across the Asian, North American, and African regions in creating a community of practice. This initiative significantly contributes to the sustainable management of rice genetic resources and emphasizes the vital role of national genebanks in the broader context of global biodiversity conservation efforts.
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