Charting Collaborative Frontiers under CPEC-HEC Consortium

Charting Collaborative Frontiers under CPEC-HEC Consortium at the
Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology (CEMB), University of the Punjab, Lahore

‘‘The Impact of the Chinese Delegation at the 2024 CEMB Vaccine Conference’’

Introduction:

The International Conference on Current Trends, Prospects, and Opportunities in Vaccine Research commenced on February 28, 2024, at the Riazuddin Auditorium, Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology (CEMB), University of the Punjab, Lahore. The inauguration ceremony witnessed the esteemed presence of Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research, Prof. Kauser Abdullah Malik, alongside Vice Chancellor of the University of the Punjab, Prof. Khalid Mehmood. This event marked a significant milestone in scientific collaboration, bringing together renowned dignitaries and experts from around the globe.

Background and Purpose:

The global vaccines pharma industry is valued in trillions of dollars, highlighting the critical importance of vaccine research and development. Pakistan, during the COVID-19 pandemic, spent over 2 billion dollars solely on procuring one type of COVID-19 vaccine, emphasizing the need for self-reliance and capacity building in vaccine production. With a focus on advancing vaccinology and addressing pressing issues in the poultry and livestock sectors of Pakistan, the conference aimed to foster collaborations and propel advancements in vaccine research.

Conference Details:

The conference received over 700 applications, including international applicants, out of which 150 participants were selected based on their relevant backgrounds. Additionally, invitations were extended to 30 faculty and industrial experts to participate in this applied conference. Among the distinguished attendees were seven Chinese delegates, including scientists, industrial experts, and students. Also, esteemed speakers from around the globe, including Professor Donald King from the Pirbright Institute UK, Professor Michael Hess from the University of Veterinary Medicine Austria, Dr. Budiman Bela from Universitas Indonesia, and Dr. Derya Karatas Yeni from Necmettin Erbakan University, Turkiye, all came in person and enriched the conference with diverse perspectives and insights.

The conference featured a highlight event – the poster competition. Participants from across the country presented abstracts on vaccine research, which were evaluated by a panel of international and national experts, providing valuable feedback to young researchers. The conference was a collaborative effort involving 11 institutes from across Pakistan, including Sindh Institute of Animal Health (SIAH) Karachi, University of Veterinary and Animal Science (UVAS) Lahore, National Center for Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering (NIBGE) Faisalabad, Nuclear Institute for Agriculture and Biology (NIAB) Faisalabad, Veterinary Research Institute (VRI) Lahore, Livestock Research KPK, Center for Advanced Studies for Vaccinology and Biotechnology (CASVAB) Quetta, University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Cholistan University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences (CUVAS) Bahawalpur, Atta-ur-Rahman School of Applied Biosciences (ASAB) NUST Islamabad, and School of Biological Sciences (SBS) Lahore under the leadership of Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology.

Chinese Delegation:

The Chinese delegation comprised Prof. Jing-yu Wang from Northwest A&F University, Mr. Liu Chengli, General Manager of Tianjin Henji Lide Biotech Development Co., Ltd, along with two students, Chen Shuo and Cui Yuehui. Prof. Chen He, Director of Sino-ASEAN Innovative Academy of Major Animal Disease Control China, highlighted the importance of collaboration in addressing animal diseases. Another notable delegate, Prof. Jing-yu Wang delivered a talk on preparation of bivalent vaccines, sharing expertise and insights from their research.

Outcomes and Importance:

The conference served as a platform for fostering collaborations between Pakistan and China in the field of vaccine research. Prof. Cheng emphasized the importance of future joint activities, including collateral workshops funded by China under the CPEC grant, initiating student collaboration programs, and rewarding grants from China-Pakistan Economic Corridor projects. Such collaborations hold immense potential for advancing vaccine research and addressing global health challenges.

Impact on Pakistan-China Collaboration:

The collaboration between Pakistan and China in vaccine research not only enhances scientific cooperation but also opens up opportunities for economic growth. The promotion of the poultry industry in Pakistan, facilitated by CPEC infrastructure, can lead to access to the Chinese meat market, the second-largest in the world. Additionally, the development of safe and cost-effective vaccines will reduce dependency on imported vaccines, saving foreign exchange.

Conclusion:

The visit of the Chinese delegation to the International Conference on Vaccine Research at CEMB underscores the importance of international collaboration in advancing scientific research and addressing global health challenges. The outcomes of this conference pave the way for future joint initiatives and highlight the significance of Pakistan-China cooperation in vaccine research and development.

Acknowledgment:

The organizers extend their gratitude to the Higher Education Commission (HEC) Pakistan for providing grant support for holding the conference. The contributions of international speakers including Prof. Wang and Mr. Cheng, are also acknowledged for their invaluable insights and expertise shared during the conference.

Note:

Abstracts of the conference proceedings will be published online by Advancements in Life Sciences an HEC y-category journal.

Links for Vaccine Conference materials: