CAPSUNIAN ECHO

 CAF BURIAS LAUNCHES INTERNATIONAL WEBINAR  SERIES 

by: Jeanelle O. Ledesma

    In a significant stride towards bridging academia and global sustainable agricultural practices, the College of Agriculture & Forestry - CAPSU Burias, in collaboration with esteemed institutions such as Hiroshima University and Hasanuddin University, launched the inaugural segment of its International Webinar Series on September 4 and 11, 2024. Focused on the "Animal Science Research and Sustainability Track," the event drew attention to pivotal trends in animal production and its vital role in global food security.

    The recent International Webinar Series brought together an impressive panel of six distinguished speakers, each an expert in their respective fields. Under the guidance of hosts Dr. Christine F. Quenga and Dr. John King N. Layos, participants were offered a robust platform to engage in discussions and inquiries regarding the pressing challenges and innovative solutions within sustainable agricultural practices.

    Kicking off the series on September 4, Dr. Johanna Aldersey, a postdoctoral fellow at the USDA Agricultural Research Service, captivated the audience with her insights on the application of single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNAseq) in disease and vaccine research about channel catfish. Her work highlights the intersection of technology and animal health, showcasing how innovative research is paving the way for more resilient agricultural practices.

    Following her, Dr. Fika Yuliza Purba from Hasanuddin University shared her expertise on sustainable food animal production through enhanced reproductive management practices, emphasizing the integral role of responsible breeding in food security. Dr. Joy B. Banayo, the head of the Animal Biotechnology Laboratory at the University of the Philippines Los Baños, further complemented these discussions by presenting her work on the development of PCR testing for mislabeling analysis in the Philippine meat industry, addressing the critical concern of food integrity.

    The second segment of the series on September 11 continued to illuminate the complexities of sustainable agriculture, featuring Dr. Lawrence M. Liao, who tackled the implications of Japan’s declining population on its agricultural landscape. Dr. Keiven Mark A. Ampode from South Korea discussed the potential of smart farming technologies to optimize animal production, underscoring the significance of innovation in achieving sustainability. Meanwhile, Dr. R-Jun Frederick A. Gaspe brought attention to climate challenges in agriculture, presenting research on mitigating enteric methane emissions from dairy cows—a crucial step in addressing greenhouse gas emissions in the livestock sector.

    The webinar not only provided an educational experience but also fostered significant networking opportunities, allowing participants to connect, collaborate, and share insights that can further drive the agenda for sustainable agricultural practices.

    The success of this international webinar series reflects a growing recognition of the urgent need for sustainable agricultural practices to ensure food security worldwide. As CAPSU Burias and its partners continue to push the envelope on research, education, and collaboration, the event acts as a reminder of the critical role higher education institutions play in the broader ASEAN community. As articulated by the organizing committee, the initiative stands as a beacon of cooperation that aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), underscoring the importance of collective action in nurturing a food-secure future for all.