Dr. Richard Goodman Speaks at Sixth Legon International Scholar Seminar Series pdf print preview print preview

The sixth in the series of the ‘Passing through Accra: Legon International Scholar Series’ (LISS) has been delivered at the Institute of African Studies (IAS), University of Ghana, Legon.

The LISS is a prestigious platform instituted by the University of Ghana under the auspices of the Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Academic and Student Affairs (ASA), and is organized for the delivery of occasional lectures by distinguished scholars based outside Ghana.

Speaking on the topic, “Assessment of Genetically Modified (GM) Food Safety: Facts, Myths and Misconceptions,” Dr. Richard E. Goodman, a Research Professor in Food Science and Food Allergy, stressed the need for the media as well as other stakeholders to conduct thorough investigations into alleged harmful effects of GM foods before judging or drawing conclusions without any scientific basis.

Dr. Goodman took the audience through an analysis of the various facts, myths and misconceptions about GM foods, and observed that in spite of recent negative reports, several countries such as the United States, Canada, Brazil, South Africa, Argentina and Pakistan had already benefited from its production and consumption. He, therefore, called on Ghanaian farmers and consumers to adopt and embrace the GM technology. He also stressed the need for food scientists to ensure food safety in their efforts to increase productivity with GM foods.

After the lecture, Dr. Goodman answered questions from the audience. He advised all to discontinue the use of any GM foods that they might be allergic to.

Prof. Esi Sutherland-Addy, speaking on behalf of the Director of IAS

In brief opening remarks on behalf of the Director, IAS, Prof. Esi Sutherland-Addy, Associate Professor, IAS, described the lecture as very important for continued research. She used the occasion to explain the work of the Institute as one of the research units within the University, which is focused on inter-disciplinary research on Africa.

Prof. Sutherland-Addy later presented a plaque to Dr. Goodman on behalf of the University, in appreciation of his contribution to the LISS.

Prof. Esther Sakyi-Dawson, Chairperson for the lecture

In her closing remarks, the Chairperson for the lecture, Prof. Esther Sakyi-Dawson, an Associate Professor in Nutrition and Food Science, observed that many people including farmers had a lot of misconceptions about foods that are genetically modified in laboratories. She noted that research into GM foods is an ongoing process that requires a lot of time and money to generate more concrete findings. She used the occasion to allay the fears of the public, and asked that scientists should be encouraged to continue their research on the safety of GM foods.

 A photograph taken after the lecture

A photograph taken after the lecture

 A cross-section of the audience at the lecture

A cross-section of the audience at the lecture