Assessment of technology generating institutions in biotechnology transformation system of South Eastern Nigeria

Abstract

The study was carried out in Southeastern agro-ecological zones of Nigeria. Questionnaire was used to 
collect data from a sample of forty-three heads of departments from research institutes and 
universities involved in biotechnology research. Results of the study revealed that some of the 
institutions have been involved in biotechnology research for the past two decades but have only 
significantly invested on bio-processing (58.8%) and cell and tissue culture (88.2%). The mandates of 
the institutions and donor agencies constituted the major determinants of biotechnology research. The 
institutions sourced research funds mainly from the government and donor agencies. However, their 
biotechnology research activities were highly constrained by several factors namely poor funding, 
unavailability of research equipment, and high cost of maintenance of equipment, among others. The 
study recommends that government should increase investment in human resource capacity building, 
infrastructural development and encourage public-private partnership for development and safe 
application of biotechnology innovations. Awareness campaign among researchers, consumers and 
farmers on the potentials of biotechnology for food security is expedient.