Lucky Obukohwo, Reporting
Prof Charles Adetunji of the department of Faculty of Science, Edo State University Uzairue, has made case for the exploration of modern biotechnology techniques like whole genome and next-generation sequencing techniques as a replacement for traditional isolation techniques applied in microbiology research and industrial production processes.
He made the call while delivery the institution’s 11th inaugural lecture series titled “Microbial Biosphere: The Global Impact And Under Explored Currency, under the chairmanship of the university Vice Chancellor, Engr. Prof. Emmanuel Aluyor.
Prof. Adetunji also said there is need to identify some new human microbiomes that can be used to manage, suppress, and prevent pathogens or resolve other health related challenges.
“Microbial biotechnology would go a long way to provide safer alternative to synthetic drugs, biocides and antibiotics with beneficial to benign to plants, animals and humans,” Adetunji said.
Adetunji added that there is a need to acknowledge the possible economic benefits that may abound in various diversity of microorganisms, particularly those surviving in extreme conditions because they might be the answer to revolutionizing industrial biotechnology.
He further tasked the relevant stakeholders to pay more attention to lessons learned from the past, to prevent future conflicts between fuel, food and be more adventurous beyond current stereotypical approach to technology.
The lecturer also called for more attention on some key factor that could boost different countries bioeconomy such as sustainability, social skills, education, communication, entrepreneurship and knowledge transfer.
Prof Adetunji reiterated the need to place more emphasis on the role of interdisciplinary network programmes as one of the key drivers of a bioeconomy through the application of beneficial microorganisms as this could be achieved by involving research centers, policymakers, industries and societies in the eventual actualization of the United Nations sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
According to him, mammals live in continuous contact or close proximity with microorganisms which eventually colonized the gastrointestinal tract of the host in a way that they both undergo growth and evolution together.
“The most significant thing about the microphone-host interaction is that it is a symbiotic favorable crosstalk because there is interdependency for survival and other vital functions”.
In conclusion he said, in searching for ample solution to the diverse challenges facing humanity, sustainable opportunities involving the application of microbes are becoming common phenomenal in the development of novel products and solutions to food insecurity, environmental degradation, disease threat and the effects of climate change, hence, there is a need for effective communication of novel innovations to guide policy formulations.
Earlier , the Vice Chancellor of the university Engr. Prof. Emmanuel Aluyor said that the 11th lecture series of the university marks another significant milestone in the remarkable journey of the university’s seven years of its existence.
Prof. Aluyor who was represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (administration), Prof. Anthony Obioma Nwaopara said the university has accomplished great feats and made indelible marks in the history of education in Nigeria.
The Vice Chancellor however used the opportunity to expressed his appreciation to management and staff for their unwavering dedication to duty, tireless efforts and commitment to excellence which have significantly contributed to the towering image of the institution.