FABA, IIL, ABF Address Vital Need For Industry-Ready Skills

Hyderabad: The Federation of Asian Biotech Associations (FABA), Indian Immunologicals Limited (IIL), and Agri Biotech Foundation (ABF) officially launched their collaborative Finishing School programme on Wednesday at the Agri Biotech Foundation, Rajendra Nagar, Hyderabad.

Prof Reddanna, Executive President of FABA and Vice President of Agri Biotech Foundation, welcoming the attendees, highlighted the significant challenge facing the biotechnology industry: the gap between academic knowledge and industry-ready skills. He emphasized FABA's ongoing commitment to addressing this disparity through its Academy initiatives, culminating in this latest educational venture - the Finishing School program.

Prof Reddanna announced that while “FABA Academy has been conducting various programs like webinars, workshops, and conferences, this is the first time we have initiated a one-month course with infrastructure support from Agri Biotech Foundation and financing from Indian Immunologicals Limited.” He emphasised that this program by FABA Academy will continue throughout the year and will train hundreds of students, marking a significant expansion of FABA’s educational initiatives.

Dr Pakki Reddy, Director of Agri Biotech Foundation, explained that ABF is a non-governmental organization established 32 years ago when biotechnology was in its nascent stage. The organization executed over 100 projects in collaboration with numerous institutions and universities. It established centers in Mahbubnagar and Nalgonda, working with various crops including castor, groundnut, and pigeon pea, as well as in the animal sector. He emphasized that scientists should have a better ground understanding and noted that while funding decreased during COVID, ABF has survived all odds and continues its work.

Dr Anand Kumar, Managing Director, IIL, shared personal life experiences and the history of Indian Immunologicals Limited. He explained that IIL was created by the National Dairy Development Board to increase milk production through animal vaccines, noting India's position as home to the largest cattle population in the world. Dr Kumar highlighted IIL's growth to a 3000-employee organization that now produces human vaccines as well, including rabies and Hepatitis A vaccines, becoming the largest vaccine manufacturer in the world. Dr Anand emphasized IIL's unique approach of maintaining a right balance in using money, keeping prices economical even for products where they hold a monopoly, and directing profits back to society. He shared that IIL has spent over 21 crores on donations, supporting government schools, mentally challenged students, and rural biogas initiatives among many others.