The African Plant Breeders Association (APBA) Conference 2025 was an inspiring experience for members of the IITA International Association of Research Scholars and Fellows (IARSAF) as they took the center stage during various sessions, sharing their research, exchanging ideas, and representing the spirit of scientific excellence that defines vision of the community.
Several scholars, including Uzoma, Chizaram Oluebube, Marvelline Chifamba, Olamide Afolarin, Omoboluwape Diekade, Ayomide Bhadmus, and Surprise Adedeji, displayed posters based on their ongoing research. Each of them offered fresh perspectives and innovative findings to discussions during the conference. Their work reflected the diversity of IARSAF’s research interests, ranging from improving crop resilience to enhancing nutrition and productivity.
A notable highlight was the oral presentation by Omotola Dorcas Olaoye titled “Exploiting genetic background in cassava nested association mapping population.” Her delivery captured both the complexity and potential of cassava genetics. Dorcas also made the IARSAF community proud by receiving the prestigious Borlaug Fellowship Award, one of only six awards given to Africans. The Borlaug Fellowship supports young researchers who make meaningful contributions to global food security, providing them with training and opportunities to enhance their scientific and leadership skills. Her recognition reflects her hard work, dedication, and the supportive mentorship culture at IITA.
The conference extended beyond presentations to emphasize meaningful conversations and connections. Omoboluwape Diekade spoke at a fireside chat organized by the Feed the Future VACS Capacity Project, where she participated in an open discussion with funders, including Dr Claudia Canales of Kirkhouse Trust and Dr Rufaro Madakadze of AGRA, to understand their expectations and how researchers can align their work with real-world impact. Her contribution provided an important voice to the dialogue on bridging the gap between research and implementation.
Following the conference, several IARSAF scholars and alumni, including Ufuoma Akpojotor, continued their engagement by participating in the Genomics and Bioinformatics Hackathon. Their active involvement showcased a strong commitment to continuous learning and the practical application of advanced scientific tools to tackle challenges in food and nutrition security. The APBA Conference was a truly memorable event for the IARSAF community serving as an environment for exploring establishing research partnerships and learning experience. The visibility, passion, and teamwork displayed at the APBA Conference serve as reminders of what can be achieved when young African researchers are supported and inspired to succeed.
Contributed by Chizaram Uzoma and Victor Diekade
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