Workshop on “Conservation & Utilization of Local Varieties and Traditional Knowledge Associated with Genetic Resources & Agriculture”
The workshop on “Conservation & Utilization of Local Varieties and Traditional Knowledge Associated with Genetic Resources & Agriculture” was jointly organized in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture (DOA) Sri Lanka and the Ministry of Agriculture Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) Japan; along with the Biodiversity for Food and Nutrition (BFN) Project and Biodiversity for Adaptation to Climate Change (BACC) Project. The objective of the workshop emphasized on gaining knowledge from the distinguished speakers and dignitaries from Japan; and generated a forum for discussion on the effective conservation & utilization of Local varieties and traditional knowledge associated with genetic resources & agriculture. Technical sessions on day one focused on the traditional agricultural practices in Sri Lanka in regard to improved nutrition and adaptation to climate change. Technical sessions of the second day emphasized the Legal Framework for the protection of local varieties, traditional knowledge in Sri Lanka and related policies also highlighting the value-added attributes and traditional knowledge on food preparation & preservation and medicinal plants associated traditional knowledge.
The successful two day workshop was attended by 85 participants including; distinguished members of the Department of Agriculture, Ministry of Mahaweli Development and Environment, experts from Japan, eminent speakers from Universities, resource persons and experts from the related fields. Much media attention was received on the comments made by the Director General of Agriculture during workshop related to climate change and ensuring securing food security, throughout the nation through sustainable agricultural practices and home gardening.
