As a young biotechnology enthusiast, I recently had the privilege of attending the Basic and Advanced Enzyme Manufacturing Masterclass (EMM2024) program, organized under the partnership of Feed the Future Striga Smart Sorghum for Africa (SSSfA) project. This comprehensive, two-week experience brought together a diverse cohort of 25 trainees from various universities and research centers – and I was honored to be a part of it. It expanded my technical skillset and ignited a newfound passion for the real-world applications of science.
One of the most rewarding highlights of the first week was the successful in-house production of the OpenVent DNA polymerase. Witnessing the efficacy of the enzyme we produced in Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) experiments was a proud moment, demonstrating our ability to develop essential laboratory reagents independently. This experience underscored the importance of self-sufficiency and inspired me to seek ways to reduce our reliance on imported laboratory supplies.
The second week was focused on advanced topics such as Clustered Regularly Interspaced Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR)/Cas9 genome editing technology and protein purification, providing eye-opening hands-on experience. Having previously only studied genome editing in theory, the opportunity to have this hands-on experience brought theoretical concepts to life. Utilizing the OpenVent polymerase that we produced in the first week for our colony PCRs was particularly exciting and further emphasized the impact of our in-house laboratory materials.
Beyond technical skills, the training also offered crucial insights into biosafety regulations and entrepreneurship. The classes challenged us to consider the commercial viability of our work, motivating me to explore innovative ways to translate scientific findings into marketable products.
One of the most impactful aspects of the program was the small group setting, which allowed for personalized attention and plenty of hands-on experience. Each participant had the opportunity to fully engage in every step of the experimental procedures, fostering a collaborative learning environment and deepening our understanding of the material. The dedicated trainers played an instrumental role in guiding us through both theoretical and practical components, nurturing an atmosphere of intellectual curiosity and growth.
Armed with the knowledge and skills acquired through the program, I am eager to share them with my peers and colleagues at the university and inspire them to explore the practical implications of scientific discoveries. My goal is to highlight the value of self-sufficiency in the laboratory and empower fellow researchers to embark on similar projects, ultimately aiming to reduce our dependence on imported laboratory supplies and their associated costs.
The diverse nature of the training program, with participants from various institutes, brought a wealth of expertise and perspectives that enriched our discussions and collaborations, broadening our scientific horizons and enhancing our communication skills.
In conclusion, the EMM2024 training program has been a transformative experience, exposing us to the practical applications of science, the entrepreneurial mindset, and the power of collaborative learning. It has expanded my technical expertise and ignited a new perspective on the boundless possibilities within the biotechnology field. As I move forward, I am excited to apply these learnings to my research and explore innovative ways to bridge the gap between scientific discovery and real-world impact.
This training program was made possible through the support and collaboration of ISAAA AfriCenter under the Feed the Future Striga Smart Sorghum for Africa (SSSfA) project, partnering with Kenyatta University, Addis Ababa University, African Agricultural Technology Foundation, Beneficial Bio, Bio and Emerging Technology Institute (BETin). I would like to express my sincere gratitude to these organizations for their investment in developing the next generation of biotechnology researchers.
I would encourage other young researchers to seek out and participate in similar training opportunities. By actively engaging in hands-on programs like this that bridge the gap between theory and practice, the next generation of biotechnology advocates can be empowered and drive sustainable advancements in this field. Together, we can unlock the full potential of science and technology to address pressing challenges and improve the lives of our communities.
By Rediet Guta, EMM2024 Participant, Addis Ababa University