Pioneering Genetic Conservation Research
A partnership between NUST and the University College Dublin
NUST and the University College Dublin (UCD) recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that advances genetic conservation research. The MOU establishes a collaboration between NUST’s Biodiversity Research Centre (BRC), renowned for its conservation expertise, and UCD’s cutting-edge genetic research facilities and scientific know-how.
Honouring the significance of this partnership, the ceremony welcomed distinguished guests, including Namibia’s Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Hon Jenelly Matundu; Her Excellency Bronagh Carr, the Ambassador of Ireland to Namibia based in Lusaka, Zambia, and the newly appointed Honorary Consul of Ireland to Namibia, Dr Patrick Murphy. Their presence underscored the diplomatic and international importance of this collaboration.
Genetic conservation research is critical to preserving biodiversity, ensuring species' long-term survival, and enabling ecosystems to adapt to the rapid environmental changes of the modern world. Prof Erold Naomab, the NUST Vice-Chancellor said: “This partnership addresses the urgent need to protect our biodiversity. By uniting the strengths of our two institutions, we are poised to pioneer research that will safeguard endangered species and promote agricultural sustainability”.
He further emphasised the global importance of this collaboration, noting, “This initiative places our research at the forefront of international efforts to protect the natural heritage upon which we all depend”.
Representing UCD, Associate Professor and Head of Zoology, Dr Jens Carlsson, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership. “By joining forces, we can expand our capabilities in genetic conservation research, developing innovative strategies that will have a profound and lasting impact on biodiversity worldwide,” he said.
Speaking on the broader significance of the agreement, Ambassador Bronagh Carr highlighted the diplomatic ties underpinning this academic collaboration, saying “this partnership goes beyond the two universities; it strengthens the bonds between Namibia and Ireland. Educational institutions foster these international relationships and promote knowledge exchange”.
NUST and UCD are set to make significant strides in genetic conservation research, contributing to global biodiversity initiatives and safeguarding endangered species for future generations.
