Khan Institute of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering celebrates Father of Genetics’ 186th birth anniversary

KARACHI: The University of Karachi (KU) Dr AQ Khan Institute of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering (KIBGE) celebrated 186th birthday of Gregor Mendel, a German scientist known as the ‘Father of Genetics’ upon conclusion of a comprehensive 3-day hands on training workshop entitled: ‘Cytogenetics, Karyotyping & Chromosomal Aberrations,’ here on Friday.

A team of 25 students and young scientists from various universities, medical colleges and institutes participated in the workshop.

On the occasion a certificate distribution and concluding ceremony was held. KU Pro-Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Shahana Urooj Kazmi was the chief guest of the ceremony. She expressed her appreciation over the efforts made by organisers in designing and executing a critical human resource enhancement event. She said that in this era, cytogenetics is offering insights into evolution.

Institute of Biomedicine and Genetics, Khan Research Laboratories Director Dr Muhammad Ismail, who was the focal person of the workshop, said while shedding light on the cytogenetics techniques that besides several other functions, prenatal diagnosis of various congenital disorders is possible by such techniques. He said that if detected at the prenatal stage, it could help parents to make a conscientious decision on the foetus.

Director General of KIBGE Prof Dr Syed Irtifaq Ali delivered the welcome address. He emphasised that even being the youngest institute, KIBGE has registered 50 students in a Master of Science leading to Doctor of Philosophy research programme, in the areas of biomedical, industrial and plant biotechnology. He said that KIBGE has been regularly organising workshops, conferences and series of lectures entitled ‘Investment in Future’. He further added that these events provided a unique opportunity for interaction between young researchers and experts of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering.

KIBGE Co-Director General Dr Abid Azhar thanked Dr Muhammad Ismail for sharing his expertise and knowledge with the participants. He further added that this was the 10th event in the last few years and three are in the pipeline as follow up programmes.Daily Times.