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In a step toward bridging the long-standing gap between academic learning and industry readiness in biotechnology, the Federation of Asian Biotech Associations (FABA), Indian Immunologicals Limited (IIL), and Agri Biotech Foundation (ABF) jointly inaugurated an advanced Finishing School Programme at the Agri Biotech Foundation campus, Rajendra Nagar, Hyderabad.
The programme, which runs until June 4, 2025, provides intensive, hands-on training in state-of-the-art wet lab facilities, offering real-world experience in microbiology, molecular biology, and cell culture. Designed to make participants instantly employable, the initiative directly addresses the 3–6 month training lag often required by companies.
Prof. Reddanna, executive president, FABA and vice president of ABF, said. “FABA has long focused on reducing the academic-industry divide. With this Finishing School, we move from dialogues to direct action—training hundreds of students through structured, year-round programmes supported by infrastructure from ABF and funding from IIL,” he stated.
Dr. Pakki Reddy, director, ABF, shared the foundation’s pioneering role since its inception 32 years ago with support from the Netherlands government. He highlighted ABF’s extensive work across crop and animal biotechnology, despite challenges like the Covid-era funding drop. “Science must transcend borders and be rooted in humanism,” he said, crediting the collaboration with FABA and IIL for enabling this transformative skill-building initiative.
Dr. Anand Kumar, managing director, IIL, emphasized IIL’s commitment to affordability, societal impact, and nation-building through science. A meaningful career evolves from self-development to societal service. This programme is a testament to that vision,” he said, urging participants to build diverse skills beyond technical domains and embrace tools like Gen AI for holistic growth, he said.
Dr. Jagadeesh COO and Dr. Ratnakar secretary general FABA, encouraged participants to take full advantage of the unique training experience, highlighting the value of grooming, communication, and open collaboration in becoming industry-ready professionals.
Chakravarthi AVPS, chairman FOPE Telangana & AP, noted that the initiative is a game-changer for the biotech sector. The programme reflects the spirit of true collaboration—academia, industry, and civil society working in unison to empower young minds with the skills, confidence, and exposure needed to thrive in the global biotech landscape.”
What sets this initiative apart is not just the technical depth but its uncompromising focus on employability and real-world relevance. Participants are mentored by industry leaders, trained on advanced lab equipment, and groomed for professional excellence—all within a month-long immersive experience, added Chakravarthi.
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