PRABIA’s new board of directors seeks to boost innovation and sustainable development in agricultural biotechnology
Wilson Rivera González is named new president of PRABIA, leading a Board of Directors committed to the future of agricultural biotechnology in Puerto Rico.
PONCE, PUERTO RICO – The Asociación de la Industria de Biotecnología Agrícola de Puerto Rico (PRABIA) officially announced its new Junta de Directores that will guide the organization in its mission to continue promoting innovation and development of agricultural biotechnology on the island. The announcement was made during the recent edition of the PRABIA 2024 Convention , which brought together industry leaders, academics, and experts to discuss the future of the industry.
The appointment of the new Board comes at a crucial time for the agricultural biotechnology industry, whose relevance is growing both in Puerto Rico and globally. PRABIA’s six member partners generate more than 2,900 direct jobs and an economic activity of $284 million in 2023, in addition to supporting education through scholarships and training for future scientists, agronomists , and other professionals. They also collaborate with community initiatives that promote social well-being and sustainable development. Internationally, the industry leads innovation in biotechnology, addressing challenges such as food security, climate change, and agricultural sustainability . Through new technologies, they are transforming agriculture, improving crop resistance and productivity to respond to growing global demand .
The new PRABIA Board will be led by Wilson Rivera González (Bayer Crop Science delegate) who assumed the role of President of PRABIA, accompanied by Gladysdel Díaz (Corteva Agriscience delegate) as Vice President, Liliana Sánchez (Syngenta delegate) as outgoing President, Lizandro Pérez (Illinois Crop Improvement Association delegate) as Treasurer and Sol Rosado (Rice Tec delegate) as Secretary. This group of leaders aims to strengthen PRABIA’s commitment to economic growth, sustainability and education in the field of agricultural biotechnology.
“It is an honor to assume the role of President of PRABIA and lead this Board of Directors made up of such dedicated and passionate professionals,” said Rivera González, who previously served as Vice President of the Board. “Our focus will be on continuing to promote research, innovation and strategic alliances that position Puerto Rico as a global leader in agricultural biotechnology.”
During the ceremony, Rivera González thanked outgoing President Liliana Sánchez for her leadership and tireless efforts at the helm of PRABIA, as well as Sol Rosado, who also played a key role as former president of the organization.
“As a Board of Directors, we have a responsibility to continue the legacy of those who came before us,” added Rivera González. “We will work together to expand the positive impact of agricultural biotechnology, foster the creation of quality jobs, and strengthen Puerto Rico’s economy, all while promoting sustainable and responsible practices . “
PRABIA’s new Board of Directors reiterated its commitment to continue the organization’s mission of supporting the research, development and implementation of innovative technologies in the field of agriculture and biotechnology. Its vision for the future focuses on strengthening strategic alliances between industry, academia and local communities to maximize the positive impact on the economy and the environment.
The PRABIA 2024 Convention was a landmark event that brought together industry experts, academics, and sector leaders to discuss the latest trends in agricultural biotechnology. With a focus on innovation and sustainability, the convention offered panel discussions, presentations, and demonstrations of the latest technologies that are transforming the agricultural sector. Participants also had the opportunity to learn about the proposals of the gubernatorial candidates for the development of the agricultural sector and biotechnology.
Acerca de PRABIA
Founded in 1995, the Puerto Rico Agricultural Biotechnology Industry Association (PRABIA) is a non-profit organization that brings together agricultural biotechnology companies operating in Puerto Rico – BASF, Bayer Crop Science, Corteva Agriscience, Illinois Crop Improvement Association, Rice Tec and Syngenta. The Association aims to strengthen the Agricultural Biotechnology ecosystem on the Island in light of the challenges of global food production. The operations of the companies that are part of PRABIA promote economic development by creating over 2,900 direct and indirect jobs, fostering education, supporting communities, providing support to the academic community and establishing programs aimed at future scientists and agronomists.
Para más información sobre PRABIA, accede a www.prabiapr.org o a la página oficial en Facebook en @PRABIAPR