Ludhiana: As genetics and biotechnology become increasingly important in school curricula, Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) has launched an initiative to help teachers keep pace with rapid scientific advances. The School of Agricultural Biotechnology recently organised a two-day workshop on Genetics and Molecular Biology for postgraduate biology teachers.The workshop was designed to strengthen teachers’ conceptual understanding and practical skills in genetics and modern molecular biology techniques, with special focus on topics taught at the senior secondary level.Addressing participants, Dr Yogesh Vikal, director, School of Agricultural Biotechnology, highlighted the enthusiastic response from teachers across schools, reflecting a growing interest in emerging areas of biological sciences. He also outlined the objectives of the workshop and the importance of introducing educators to the latest developments in the field.The technical sessions covered a wide range of subjects, including Mendelian genetics, molecular markers, DNA fingerprinting, DNA extraction and quantification, gene cloning, RNA interference (RNAi) and genome editing. Teachers were also given hands-on training in key laboratory techniques such as plant DNA extraction, DNA quantification, agarose gel electrophoresis, preparation of PCR reactions and gel documentation.To provide practical exposure, participants attended demonstrations on plant tissue culture and bacterial colony screening. The programme also included guided visits to specialised research laboratories and PAU’s Speed Breeding Facility, offering teachers a first-hand look at advanced agricultural biotechnology research.University officials said the initiative would help educators translate complex scientific concepts into classroom learning and enable them to better acquaint students with the latest developments in genetics and biotechnology.The workshop forms part of PAU’s broader outreach efforts to strengthen science education and build stronger links between academic research and school classrooms.
