Youth for Biosecurity fellowships from the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs, in Geneva have been awarded to ICGEB trainees.
Delfina Hlashwayo from Mozambique and Pongpannee Phumikhet from Thailand completed the Science Diplomacy, Virus Detection, and Biosecurity course held at ICGEB Trieste, Italy in March 2024, having undergone a highly competitive selection process: out of nearly 800 applicants, only 14 were selected to follow the course addressing virus detection, biosecurity and science diplomacy.
Dr. Alessandro Marcello, head of the Molecular Virology Group at ICGEB Trieste, and Dr. Marianna Ulinici, instructor of the course, met with the Fellows at the Fourth Meeting of the Working Group on the Strengthening of the Biological Weapons Convention held at the UN in Geneva, from 19-23 August 2024.
A side event on Reducing Biological Risks by Promoting the Peaceful Use of Biology Under Article X of the BWC was promoted by the Embassy of Norway and the BWC ISU, where Ms. Hlashwayo shared her insightful experience. She emphasised that the Course at ICGEB Trieste significantly enhanced her molecular biology skills and strengthened the technical profile of the Eduardo Mondlane University, Faculty of Sciences, with which she is affiliated. Fostering regional networking, Ms. Hlashwayo also advocates for women in science, and promotes youth engagement in global initiatives.
The Fellows’ journey is a testament to the importance of youth involvement in global biosecurity efforts.
During the intersessional meeting of the Biosecurity Working Group of the Global Partnership of the G7, Dr. Marcello reported on the progress of the BIO-GUARD project. ICGEB Chief, External Relations, Ms. Marianna Maculan, presented the work of the Organisation in the fields of Biosafety and Biosecurity.in Trieste and New Delhi.
