IPGRI training resources

Curriculum on plant genetic resources
Ex situ conservation of PGR
Ecogeographic surveys
Introduction to collecting
Planning collecting      missions

Molecular markers: Learning modules
Vol. 1: Using molecular marker technology in studies on plant genetic diversity
Vol. 2: Genetic diversity analysis with molecular markers data

 Training is fundamental to IPGRI's effort to strengthen national systems. Training in developing countries is limited by lack of trainers and training materials, and of structured curricula for delivery. To help countries develop self-sufficiency in training, IPGRI has developed a plant genetic resources curriculum and support materials in various languages (see left side bar).

With financial support from Spain, the IPGRI Americas Group is writing training modules on fundamental aspects of genetic resources such as in situ and ex situ conservation, seed physiology and utilization. Regional IPGRI staff write the modules in Spanish in a style that makes them easy for teachers and students to follow, test them in training events and have them reviewed by experts. The modules comprise lecture notes, slides, references, supplementary information and a glossary. They are easily adaptable to a trainer’s particular needs and flexible enough to use in short workshops as well as on diploma and degree courses. Electronic versions are available on IPGRI’s Web site on the Internet www.ipgri.cgiar.org/training/mat_intro.htm.

Nearly 200 Latin American scientists have been trained with these materials up to the end of 2000. Many of these trainees now occupy responsible positions in the genetic resources programmes of their countries. This has encouraged IPGRI's Sub-Saharan Africa Group to work in collaboration with the Instituto Nacional de Investigaçao Agraria (INIA) in Portugal to translate the training modules into Portuguese for use in the Lusophone countries of Africa (Angola, Cape Verde, Guinea-Bissau, Mozambique, and Sao Tome and Principe). The module on ex situ conservation was translated to Portuguese and tested in Angola. An English version of the same module will soon be available in the Web.