Keam Makarady, environment and health program director of the Center for Study and Development of Agriculture in Cambodia (CEDAC), has some tips for becoming an agricultural expert in the field of biotechnology.

Having worked in the agricultural sector for more than 10 years, Makarady says: “Biotechnology can have a natural approach but also deals with so called genetically modified organisms (GMO) that may have negative impacts.”

Makarady also says that GMOs were used in Cambodia but CEDAC as well as some other specialists in Cambodia were not very supportive of their use. Organic farming, however, focuses on an environmental balance without the use of chemical substances and can produce healthier food, according to the biotechnologist. CEDAC has been training farmers and some students on biotechnology that prioritises organic products.

Makarady also says that becoming an expert in the use of biotechnology in farming, research outside the classroom is necessary.

Because most literature and information are available in foreign languages, training in organisations like CEDAC and higher education abroad are also necessities to deepen your knowledge.

However, the thing needed most is a great deal of passion.

“One has to really love agriculture and natural resources. We need to clearly understand all relevant technology to protect our land. “ says Makarady.