IITA and partners launch AfPBA CRISPR Class III Training to empower Africa’s Crop Improvement Scientists

IITA–CGIAR, a member of the African Orphan Crops Consortium (AOCC) in partnership with the University of California, Davis (UC Davis) and the Innovative Genomics Institute (IGI) at UC Berkeley, has officially launched the third cohort of its renowned African Plant Breeding Academy (AfPBA) CRISPR training program in Nairobi, Kenya. The program equips African molecular scientists with cutting-edge knowledge, skills, and tools to revolutionize agriculture across the continent.

The AfPBA CRISPR Class III, commencing on 20 January 2025, will provide 11 selected scientists from five African countries with advanced training in the know-how of genome editing using CRISPR-Cas technology. The initiative is designed to empower participants to develop more resilient crops to climate change, pests, and diseases—critical for addressing Africa’s food and nutritional security challenges.

“We are committed to equipping Africa’s scientists with the skills they need to tackle the pressing challenges facing smallholder farmers. The AfPBA CRISPR course represents a vital step toward fostering agricultural innovation and ensuring the resilience of African food systems,” said Dr Leena Tripathi, Director, IITA Eastern Africa Hub and Genetic Innovation Science area and Lead, IITA Biotechnology Program.

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