Department of Molecular Biology, Virtual University of Pakistan organized a one day workshop at M.A. Jinnah Campus, Lahore. Workshop held under the title “Biosafety & Biosecurity: Principles and Practices” in collaboration with the Pakistan Biological Safety Association. Workshop was aimed to provide a forum to share recent developments, raise awareness about biosafety among researchers, academicians and laboratory personnel, emerging trends and standards in the area of biosafety and biosecurity.

Dr. Adnan Zafar Khan, Additional Secretary Health & Head Punjab Aids Control Program was the chief guest on the occasion. Dr. Naveed A Malik, Rector Virtual University of Pakistan welcomed all the guests and participants of the workshop. He considered the strong participation of both young and experienced researchers as an indication of the event’s success. Key topics discussed at the workshop included: sustainable biosafety education, training and networks,  emergence of biosecurity, biosafety and bioethics in academic medicine and public health, biological risk assessment/mitigation and communication, standardization and best practices for biosafety, biological waste management; and code of conduct for life scientists.

The keynote speakers at the workshop included Dr. Ali Ahmed from University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Furqan Ahmed from Pakistan Biological Safety Assosiation, Amber Javed and Samreen Sarwar.

The event concluded with presentation of souvenirs to the distinguished guests and certificates to the participants and organizers.