HYDERABAD, Dec 12: Scientists and research scholars have urged the National Commission for Biotechnology (NCB) to induct biotechnologists from the universities of Sindh and NWFP into the commission and include the subject of biotechnology in the curriculum of higher secondary schools and colleges.

The suggestions came at the inaugural session of a four-day training workshop on biotechnological techniques organised by the Institute of Biotechnology of the University of Sindh at High-tech Central Resource Laboratory, Allama I I Kazi Campus on Monday.

Sindh University (SU) Vice-Chancellor Dr Mazharul Haq Siddiqui who presided over the session urged the scientists to devote their time and abilities to the service of mankind.

Dr Mazhar Naqvi, adviser to Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission, who was chief guest said that collaborative efforts in research had always produced good results.

He declared the Sindh University’s biotechnology institute one of the best and said that representation of different scholars on the NCB would greatly help achieve the institute’s objectives.

SU Institute of Biotechnology Director Dr Mohammad Umer Dahote underlined the need for giving representation to the biotechnologists from Sindh and NWFP on NCB and reminded Higher Education Commission of its promise about including the subject of biotechnology in higher secondary to college level education.

He said that the preparation of syllabus or publication of booklets was not enough. A breakthrough had the potential to enhance quality of life, he said.