Luanar intensifies bio-tech research

By Patricia Ngwale, Contributor:

Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (Luanar) has installed new state-of-the-art equipment at its Biotechnology laboratory in a bid to intensify efforts towards bio-technology research in the country.

Speaking on Tuesday when unveiling the equipment, Head of Crop and Soil Science Department, Professor Patson Nalivata, said the instrument would benefit the country.

“The equipment will also help us in working with stakeholders who mostly require us to analyse samples.

“We also work with private sector players who want analytical capacity when they want to export products,” Nalivata said.

In his remarks, South Africa-based Application Chemist, Richard Stanton, said the instruments would help address challenges the country’s researchers face.

“This instrument is ideal for agricultural laboratories looking to reduce operation costs as it uses nitrogen gas form the air. It has an excellent performance, improved safety and it’s easy to use,” Stanton said.

The equipment and its supporting instruments have been installed with support from DFID through Royal Society African Capacity Initiative Programme.