Held at the Faculty of Sciences of Sfax on October 16–17, 2025, this two-day event brought together leading experts and researchers to discuss the vital role of seed banks in safeguarding plant genetic diversity and ensuring global food security in the face of climate change.
We had the privilege of learning from outstanding keynote speakers who shared their expertise and vision:
· Prof. Andreas Börner (IPK Gene Bank Information System, Germany) – on Ex situ seed collections: Maintenance and Utilisation.
· Prof. Tiziana Ulian (University of Turin, Italy) – on the Importance of seed conservation for sustainable development: Case studies from around the world.
· Prof. Andrea Mondoni (University of Pavia, Italy) – who provided valuable insights into the challenges and strategies of ex situ conservation.
· Prof. Fiona Hay (Aarhus University, Denmark) – for her inspiring and detailed presentation on seed conservation.
· Prof. Azaiez Ouled Belgacem (ICARDA, Tunisia) – on the critical role of seed networks for strategic and sustainable food production.
· Prof. Geert Haesaert (Ghent University, Belgium) – for his insightful talk on leveraging genetic diversity to enhance climate resilience in cropping systems.
· Prof. Elyes Babay (National Gene Bank, Tunisia) – who shared an overview of the philosophy and management practices of Tunisia’s seed bank.
· Prof. Amine Slim (National Gene Bank, Tunisia) – who demonstrated how local genetic resources can be effectively managed from acquisition to conservation.
These inspiring talks highlighted the essential work of institutions such as the National Gene Bank of Tunisia and the IPK Gene Bank, whose efforts in maintaining and utilizing ex situ collections form a cornerstone for climate-resilient agriculture. Preserving genetic diversity remains our strongest insurance for future food security.
A heartfelt thanks to all experts, researchers, and speakers for sharing their expertise and passion. Together, we are strengthening the foundations of sustainable agriculture and climate-resilient food systems.
#SustainableAgriculture #SeedConservation #GeneticResources #INPLANTOMICS #ClimateAction #FoodSecurity #Tunisia #HigherEducation #Science
