International symposium on food security and sustainable development
Accredited as a CUHK 60th anniversary celebratory event, The International Symposium on Agricultural Genomics for Food Security and Plant-Environment Interaction in a Changing Climate, organised from August 9 – 11, 2023 jointly by the State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology (CUHK), the RGC-AoE Center for Genomic Studies on Plant-Environment Interaction for Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security and Institute of Environment, Energy and Sustainability, was a resounding success. The 3-day symposium has showcased a range of presentations that highlighted the pivotal role of genomics in shaping the future of agriculture, bringing together experts, researchers, and scholars from around the world to delve into the latest advancements in the field.
At the opening ceremony, Professor Rocky S. Tuan, Vice-Chancellor and President of CUHK, has accredited the symposium as a shining example of the theme of the University’s diamond jubilee, where great minds shine and collaborate towards the common goal of advancing agricultural genomics research for the betterment of society. Over 150 attendees were treated to thought-provoking keynote presentations and insightful thematic talks by renowned international and local scholars from 6 continents, to explore various aspects of agricultural genomics, including underutilised crops and nutritional research, Genomics and functional agro-ecology, and new technological platforms. Over 30 young researchers and students also had the opportunity to showcase their work at the engaging poster sessions and gain valuable insights from experienced professionals in the field.
Fostering an environment of collaboration, the symposium has also successfully nurtured the foundation of International Consortium for Research and Applications of Legumes on 11 August. This international consortium is expected to drive the momentum of the symposium further through joint research addressing environmental sustainability.
Overall, the symposium served as a catalyst for advancing our understanding of agricultural genomics and its potential to address global challenges, aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. It was a testament to the power of interdisciplinary collaboration and the dedication of the scientific community to creating a more sustainable and food-secure future. (Event photos, videos and program can be viewed here)
