Africa, Asia scientists trained in digital sequence information to support future-ready genebanks
Scientists from Africa and Asia met in India to build practical skills that help genebanks use genomic data to support crop improvement and food security.
AFRICA/ASIA – Up to 18 scientists from 12 countries across Africa and Asia gathered in India in December 2025 for hands-on training aimed at strengthening the way genebanks manage and use genomic data to support food and nutrition security.
The five-day workshop took place at the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics headquarters in Hyderabad from 8 to 12 December 2025.
The training formed part of the CGIAR Genebanks Accelerator initiative and brought together experts from ICRISAT, AfricaRice, and the Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT.
Closing skills gaps in genomics
As genomics continues to shape modern agriculture, Digital Sequence Information, which refers to digital data drawn from a plant’s DNA, has become central to plant breeding and genetic resource management. Yet many national research institutions still struggle with limited skills and systems to use these data well.
Dr Stanford Blade, Deputy Director General for Research and Innovation at ICRISAT, said the training aimed to close that gap. “As a signatory to the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture, ICRISAT continues to promote the effective use of plant genetic resources through training programs, strengthening human capacity to translate scientific advances into tangible gains for food and nutrition security,” he said.
During the workshop, participants worked directly with genomic tools and data. They practiced handling, analysing, and linking Digital Sequence Information with genebank databases, skills that breeding programs now need to develop climate-resilient and high-yielding crops.
The program covered the full genomics workflow, starting with DNA extraction and moving through high-throughput genotyping and single nucleotide polymorphism data analysis. Scientists used ICRISAT’s laboratory facilities and also toured key research sites, including the Genebank, Speed Breeding Facility, Plant Quarantine Laboratory, Climate Change Biology Facility, and Aflatoxin Laboratory.
These visits showed how genomic data connects seed conservation with crop improvement that reaches farmers.
Building regional links
The workshop placed strong focus on cooperation beyond the training period. Participants agreed to set up regional Communities of Practice in Africa and Asia to support peer learning and regular exchange.
Speaking virtually, Dr Marie-Noelle Ndjiondjop, Head of the Monty Jones Rice Biodiversity Center for Africa and Interim Lead of AoW5 under the CGIAR Genebank Accelerator, stressed the value of coordination. “By building shared capacity across regions and institutions, the training enhances the application of genomic data and supports more informed decisions in breeding programs,” she said.
At the close of the program, organizers named two National Agricultural Research Systems Champions to co-lead the Communities of Practice. Dr Jean Sangare from Mali’s Institut d’Economie Rurale and Dr Puneet GM from the Indian Institute of Agricultural Research will guide regional cooperation.
Dr Kuldeep Singh, Acting Global Research Program Director for Accelerated Crop Improvement and Head of the Genebank at ICRISAT, said the workshop “fostered sustained regional collaboration, strengthening countries’ long-term capacity to manage and utilize genetic resources.”
Dr Damaris Odeny, Principal Scientist for Genomics, Pre-Breeding and Bioinformatics at ICRISAT, explained the practical value of Digital Sequence Information. “The digital approach allows breeders to identify useful traits without repeatedly accessing physical samples, reducing costs and time while accelerating breeding decisions,” she said.
At the valedictory ceremony, former ICRISAT Genebank Head Dr Hari Upadhyaya reminded participants that science must rest on honesty and integrity.
The training supports global efforts linked to Sustainable Development Goal 17 and reflects wider work to ensure genebanks and genomic data help build resilient and fair food systems.
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