Study Abroad

Agricultural Biotechnology:
Trade Related Aspects of the Regulation of GM Products in South Africa


Dr. Johan Brink, Institute of International Agriculture

Program Description:

Research will be completed in South Africa where students will study the critical intersection of biotechnology, regulation, and trade. Studies will include: the impact of trade and exports of maize to Southern African countries after the commercialization of GM maize in South Africa; the impact of the release of GM maize on industry markets; and the impact of biosafety regulation (international treaties) on the exportation of GM maize from South Africa.


Timeline:

WEEK #

RESEARCH ACTIVITIES & PRODUCTS

Week 1
  • Initial research conceptualization and orientation of field of study
  • Begin literature review – Examine literature and background of biotechnology communication and outreach strategies
  • Planning of In-Country data collection trip to South Africa (SA)

 

Weeks 2-3
  • Continue literature review
  • Develop detailed research approach and concept (design, methods, research instrument/s)

 

Week 4
  • Refine research/data collection approach and concept; Prepare presentation
  • Presentation to Research Leader, IIA Faculty, and members of the USAID funded Food Security III project in Southern Africa

 

Weeks 5-7

In-country data collection:

week 5
  • 2 days – Travel East Lansing -Johannesburg/Pretoria, SA.
  • 1 day – Adjust from travel and connect with local coordinator to discuss details of logistics and research schedule.
  • 1 day – 1) Meet with members of the Ag. Econ Dept. of the University of Pretoria (UP). 2) Collect local literature/documents related to research topic/questions. 3) Finalize research schedule and travel schedule
  • 1 day – 1) Connect via conference call with Research leader and Local organizer to discuss final itinerary and activity details.

 

week 6
  • 3 days – Meet with and interview various industry role players (farmers, Grain SA, processors) to determine the impact of the release of GM Corn/Maize on their markets in SA
  • 1 day – Meet with members of the AG. Econ Dept. at UP to discuss the impact on trade and exports of corn/maize to Southern African countries
  •  Revise interview schedule/s as necessary.

 

week 7
  •  Connect via conference call with Research Leader and Local coordinator early in week to discuss progress and refine next steps; Identify and collect any additional local literature/documents needed for research.
  •  1 day - Meet and interview Biotechnology stakeholders and members of the corn/maize industry to determine the impact of biosafety regulations and International treaties on exports of GM Corn/Maize from SA.
  •  1 day – Compile Draft Outline for Report
  •  2 days – Travel Johannesburg - East Lansing.

 

Weeks 8-10
    • Report writing – Compile Draft Research report on findings and conclusions of the study
    • Prepare presentation
    • Presentation to Research Leader

Weeks 11-12
    • Revise Research report based on feedback from Research Leader Develop
  •  Present Research Report to Research Leader, IIA Faculty and  Food Security III project members

 

For more information please contact:

Dan Dutkiewicz
Industry Liaison and Student Abroad Specialist
Institute of International Agriculture
Michigan State University
319 Agriculture Hall
East Lansing, MI 48824-1039
517-355-0184
dutkiew1@anr.msu.edu