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Regional Biosafety Course 2012 hosted by GenØk and University of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
April 23, 2012
to April 28, 2012
Venue: Dar es Salaam (University of Dar es Salaam)
Regional Course 2012 - Holistic Foundations for Assessment and Regulation of Genetic Engineering and Genetically Modified Organisms
Organized in collaboration with the University of Dar es Salaam - 23rd April 2012 to 28th April 2012
Venue: Dar es Salaam (University of Dar es Salaam)
Topics include:
- Overview of genomes, genes and gene expression
- GE process: creation and detection of GMO
- Laboratory practicals
- Biodiversity, ecosystems and ecological impacts of GMOs
- Future applications of genetic engineering
- Cultural, social, political issues related to GE/GMO
- Risk assessment and management
- Implementation of the Precautionary Principle
- Policy issues, including capacity building and participation (scientific, enforcement, educational, legal)
- Cartagena Protocol, WTO and other international agreements
- Practical risk assessment under the guidance of the Biosafety Assessment Tool
Background
The Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety seeks to ensure ”an adequate level of protection in the field of the safe transfer, handling and use of living modified organisms resulting from modern biotechnology that may have adverse effects on the conservation and sustainable use of biological diversity, taking also into account risks to human health, and specifically focusing on transboundary movements”. In order to manage the introduction and development of GMOs as well as trade thereof, countries are required to develop biosafety regulations. However, there is a lack of understanding, expertise and scientific knowledge on the different aspects necessary to perform risk assessment and develop a regulatory system that takes into consideration the ethical, economic and social considerations.
Performing credible biological risk assessments requires multi-disciplinary scientific and social scientific competence that considers the local context of GMO introductions. Each country needs to be able to conduct risk assessment review and understand the different aspects thereof in order to effectively monitor and manage the introduction of GMOs into the environment Moreover, there is a need to assess GMOs in the context of each countries unique cultural, ethical socio-economic and policy frameworks. Such initiatives will require holistic approaches to develop adequate regulation over the use of GMOs.
About the course
The course is designed to provide policy makers, regulators, scientists and NGOs/civil society leaders, specifically from the East, Central and Southern African region, with the necessary balanced and critical knowledge and training in crucial GE/GMO issues. Through lectures, laboratory demonstrations, group work on case studies, and discussions, we offer biosafety capacity building within a holistic framework.
Eligibility and selection process
The course application form must be filled out entirely and with as much detail as possible. The applicant must provide information about the type/level of position they are holding, and state the basis for their interest in the course. In addition, a brief CV is required for consideration. The course will be in English.
Gender and regional criteria are also used in the selection of participants in order to achieve representational balance.
Applications close on 28th February 2012.
Costs and expenses
Full sponsorship will be given to 40 selected applicants. The sponsorship will cover curricular materials, course-associated travel, visa-fees, accommodation and meals.
For further information you can contact:
or
For further information about ODA-countries visit http://www.oecd.org/dataoecd/32/40/43540882.pdf
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