Education and Communication

Overview

At Haide College, a nexus where Ocean University of China and the University of Adelaide converge, an intriguing disparity intrigued us. Our team leader, a fervent synthetic biology advocate and iGEM aficionado, noticed that while HaiDe College thrived on the amalgamation of Chinese and Australian students, the University of Adelaide lacked an iGEM team, starkly contrasting our own deep involvement.

Inspired to explore, he proposed a deep-dive into data analysis. We embarked on an ambitious mapping of the iGEM landscape globally, revealing significant disparities in participation and educational opportunities.

Guided by the SDGs, we devised a layered, phased strategy, recognizing the complexities of the educational landscape.

Starting in Qingdao, our home, we addressed the uneven distribution of high school teams, engaging in dialogues that sparked curiosity and addressed concerns. The response was vibrant, a testament to the potential for growth.

Expanding across Shandong Province, we tried to address the underrepresentation of graduate students, nurturing interest and overcoming disparities. We engaged with undergraduate and graduate students, whose participation was shaped by institutional, regional, and economic factors. Our efforts not only included presentations and creating new opportunities but also facilitated communication between institutions, leading to the successful establishment of early organizations dedicated to synthetic biology.

With a national perspective, we looked at disparities in participation within China, utilizing multifaceted approaches, including broadened age brackets and communication with experienced educators. We introduced educational tools—like age-specific board games—that sparked interest among primary and junior high school students. Debate competitions and colloquia disrupted information asymmetry and addressed uneven education across majors, schools, and regions.

Branching out globally, we addressed disparities through online podcasts and tutorials, tailored to lower barriers and pique interest. Our ambition is a global embrace of synthetic biology, where innovation and education flourish. Our research and two-directional conversations pivot on the impact of synthetic biology's applications, emphasizing safe, responsible, and effective use.

Our comprehensive surveys and activities have begun to bridge intercontinental educational disparities, eliciting inspiring responses.

Feedback mechanism

“The formulation of a problem is often more essential than its solution, which may be merely a matter of mathematical or experimental skill. To raise new questions, new possibilities, to regard old problems from a new angle requires creative imagination and marks real advances in science.” ————Albert Einstein

Embracing Einstein's philosophy, we innovatively conceived a feedback mechanism—a dynamic framework—that prioritizes the discovery and analysis of specific issues. We christened this process "GENE cycles," a sequence of strategic steps designed to guide us from data collection to analysis, action, and refinement.

Earth

Regional – high school

Figure1. Number of Chinese mainland iGEM high school teams by province Click on the Graphic for Details

As the data unfurls, it reveals a starkly uneven educational landscape within the iGEM high school division—a terrain where, in spite of a robust number of high school teams eager to compete, participation is glaringly lopsided, concentrated in mere pockets of regions. There is an urgent need to foster an ecosystem where these values permeate more equitably, reaching a comprehensive spectrum of students, transcending boundaries of geography and socioeconomic status, to cultivate a truly global community of young scientific minds.

Students interview

We took our first step within the familiar confines of Qingdao West Coast District No.1 Senior High School, initiating our quest for insights directly from the hearts and minds of the student body on the topic of participation in the prestigious iGEM competition. The prevailing response from these academically thriving students, beneficiaries of a school well-endowed with educational resources, expressed a desire to pursue extracurricular scientific endeavors, but the relentless demands of their academic schedules and the registration fees for iGEM posed barriers, making participation a distant dream for many.

Guided by an unwavering commitment to scientific rigor, we transcended the realms of conjecture and assumption. Our familiarity with the city because of it is the location of our university, did not serve as a crutch for subjective judgments. Instead, it acted as a catalyst, propelling us to seek out the unfiltered voices and genuine insights of the students, the very heartbeats of our community.

We listened with the receptiveness of learners. Each opinion, each suggestion, was not merely heard but valued, woven into the fabric of our strategies, ensuring that our actions were not only informed but also deeply rooted in the needs and aspirations of those we sought to empower.

Symphony

There were those students whose dreams of participation were stifled by external constraints, particularly these high schooler students. For them, we were determined to sow the seeds of interest, to cultivate a budding passion for synthetic biology, and to ensure that no potential was left untapped due to lack of exposure.

In our quest to bridge the chasms of disparity and bring the frontiers of science to regions lagging in iGEM educational development, we embarked on a mission of enlightenment. To the high school students, we delivered a lecture that was not merely a transfer of information but a catalyst for inspiration.

We taught the very foundations of synthetic biology, considering their ample basic knowledge. We elucidated the competition's processes and benefits, ensuring that every step was attractive. We complemented this theoretical knowledge with practical examples, weaving the complexities of genetic circuits into narratives that were both captivating and enlightening, facilitating a more intuitive grasp of the subject matter that transcended the mere memorization of facts.

We strived to create an atmosphere where curiosity was nurtured, questions were encouraged, and the barriers to entry, whether they be knowledge or confidence, were systematically dismantled. Our hope was that, through our efforts, the seeds of interest we sowed would grow into a lush garden of enthusiasm for synthetic biology, one where every mind, regardless of their starting point, could flourish.

Guidance

Our hearts swelled with a profound sense of joy and fulfillment as we witnessed the spark of interest ignite in the eyes of the students. The presentations we delivered, infused with passion and knowledge, seemed to have struck a chord, resonating with the inquisitive minds before us. Their enthusiasm was palpable, manifesting in a flurry of eager questions, as they sought guidance on how to forge their paths, assemble teams, and dive headfirst into the exhilarating world of competition. We then decided to learn from it, offering a roadmap to team formation and participation.

They absorbed our teachings with ease, demonstrating a quick grasp of synthetic biology's core concepts and expressing a genuine fascination with our project. The exposure to synthetic biology's rapid evolution and its profound impact on science sparked a fervent curiosity among the student body. Despite the seemingly insurmountable challenges(the red fonts are the obstacles students reported: time, energy, money), it was profoundly encouraging to witness a group of students, inspired by our team's composition, expressing a strong desire to explore the realm of iGEM in their future academic endeavors, irrespective of their chosen field of study.

Seed

Overgraduate & University barrier

Figure2. The proportion of mainland Chinese overdergraduate students Click on the Graphic for Details

We found that the engagement of graduate students is strikingly low. This underrepresentation limits the scope for a deeper exploration and development within the field of synthetic biology.

Figure3. Proportion of undergraduate and overgraduate teams originating from mainland Chinese 211 universities Click on the Graphic for Details

Figure4. Proportion of undergraduate and overgraduate teams originating from mainland Chinese 985 universities Click on the Graphic for Details

Figure5. Proportion of undergraduate and overgraduate teams originating from mainland Chinese Double First-Class Initiatives Click on the Graphic for Details

For undergraduate teams, the playing field is far from level. A significant majority of the teams originate from universities renowned for their research prowess and academic excellence.

Professor interview

OUC-Haide team convened with Associate Professor Lv Zhiyi from the Laboratory for Development & Regeneration, Institute of Evolution & Marine Biodiversity at Ocean University of China's College of Marine Life Sciences. The conversation delved into his insights as a professor from a non-synthetic biology field regarding the iGEM competition, and his thoughts on postgraduate student engagement in it.

The dialogue unveiled Associate Professor Lv's favorable stance on iGEM, viewing it as an engaging contest that offers a highly international platform for interaction. He stressed that students, particularly undergraduates, can proactively broaden their learning horizons through iGEM project involvement, greatly enriching their personal development. He also highlighted the similarity between iGEM's project and societal business operations, noting that engaging in iGEM project design and community liaison can facilitate smoother commercial funding, thereby bolstering students' future entrepreneurial pursuits.

However, he advises that the competition may divert significant time and effort away from research to non-research activities. For those fully committed to scientific exploration, pursuing a deeper and more specialized project may prove more beneficial as a research focus.

We also conducted interviews and surveys with graduate students from the prestigious Chinese Academy of Sciences.

The results revealed that the majority were aware of iGEM, with many having even participated during their undergraduate years. The primary reason for not engaging with iGEM currently is due to a misalignment with their current research topics, coupled with a lack of encouragement from their institutions. However, with institutional support, they expressed a willingness to get involved.

The reality for these top-tier labs, brimming with rich research experiences, is that they devote a lot of energy to the extensive research. This dedication leaves little room for tasks that are perceived as extraneous, such as organizational and communicative efforts unrelated to their core research. The findings highlight the need for a more tailored approach to engage this demographic, one that respects their time constraints and aligns more closely with their academic pursuits.

Spread

Building upon the lessons learned from our first iteration’s examine phase, we embarked on a mission to nurture new horizons of opportunity. Our second round of presentations was meticulously enhanced with strategic team-building guidance.

University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, a newly-established academic bastion that welcomed its inaugural class of undergraduate students — all bright-eyed freshmen — became the chosen ground for our pioneering efforts.

We introduced iGEM and synthetic biology to these students when they had even stepped foot in their first lecture hall. As seasoned upperclassmen, we assumed the mantle of mentors, sharing our richer experiences in iGEM team-building. This proactive introduction was designed to empower them from the outset, enabling them to envision a path for their university experience that would encompass the cultivation of iGEM-related skills. Our aim was to equip them with the necessary tools and insights to confidently embark on a journey towards potential participation in the iGEM competition, ideally during their sophomore year.

Post-presentation, we extended our hand further, assisting them in the embryonic stages of organizing an iGEM team. We recognized the enormity of the task — being the first to sow the seeds of iGEM in a university without a prior history of hosting such teams. To address this, and to disrupt the vicious cycle that hinders educational parity, we took proactive steps. We facilitated their communication with the college and university administration, advocating for support, resources, and recognition. This was a bold move to level the playing field and ensure that the university's reputation did not become a barrier to student participation in iGEM.

University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, with its innovative undergraduate mentorship system, presented an unexpected advantage. This unique structure, in many ways, positioned the university as a potential sally port in the iGEM arena, surpassing even our 985 universities in terms of conducting research and fostering iGEM initiatives. We firmly believe that a university's academic standing should not dictate its students' access to such enriching opportunities.

The freshmen, having just completed high school, lack of exposure which was symptomatic of the deep-seated disparity in iGEM education at the high school level — a disparity that is both severe and persistent. Yet, they were not entirely unacquainted with the world of synthetic biology. Concepts such as CRISPR had crossed their paths. The revelation that even some provincial biology competition champions were unaware of iGEM underscored the inadequacy of promotional efforts and the educational disparity that lingers at the high school level.

In our ongoing quest to broaden horizons and challenge conventional boundaries, we extended our reach to Shandong Second Medical University, an institution not classified among the elite 'double first-class' universities.

Our objective was crystal clear: try to dismantle the barriers erected by academic hierarchy that often deter students from participating in competitions such as iGEM. They were questioning whether they possessed the aptitude for such endeavors. A sense of inadequacy prevailed among some, who doubted their expertise in the field. The paucity of knowledge about iGEM was further compounded by the limited promotional efforts. This scenario was emblematic of the broader issue at hand: the subtle yet pervasive influence of school ranking on student engagement. It was a stark reminder of how the perceived academic standing of an institution could unwittingly stifle student enthusiasm and participation in extracurricular activities.

Consistent with our mission, we integrated team-building guidance into our presentation. This was not merely an informational session; it was a call to action, a beacon of hope for students who might not have considered themselves part of the iGEM community. Our aim was to empower them, to instill confidence, and to demonstrate that iGEM was not merely for the academically elite but for anyone with a passion for learning and a drive to make a difference.

Although the strength of our team is not enough to improve the economic situation of a district, we hope to do our part to provide more students with the substantial help they really want to be able to participate in iGEM.

As a team, while we may not be able to single-handedly enhance a university's overall research capabilities, we can certainly leverage our own strengths to engage students from other universities in research and the iGEM experience. We reached out to two Mechanical, anufacturing and automation students from the Qingdao Agricultural University, YunpengWu(Left) and Ping Wang(Right), inviting them to contribute their unique skills and expertise to our project, particularly in the Hardware segment.

Upon gaining insight into the postgraduate team's stance and current situation, we didn't halt in our tracks due to Associate Professor Lu's refusal; rather, we took it as a learning opportunity. We strategized to have the postgraduate students sidestep the bulk of non-research related work that participating in the competition entails, enabling them to leverage their expertise. In their role as instructors, they would complement our efforts mutually, fostering a symbiotic relationship. Meanwhile, the substantial time and energy saved would be channeled back into their own, more specialized research pursuits, ensuring no compromise on academic rigor and advancement.

Buds

Following our presentation, the air was charged with an electric sense of curiosity and enthusiasm. The students' interest was not fleeting; it was profound and transformative. Emboldened by newfound knowledge and the promise of opportunity, a section of the audience took the initiative to explore the rich histories and accomplishments of past iGEM teams. They delved into the intricate wikis, meticulously documented by their predecessors, and embarked on a learning journey into the realms of molecular biology and beyond.

The transition from the confines of high school to the expansive, resource-rich environment of university was instrumental as they reported. It illuminated a path previously obscured, showing more ease and accessibility of pursuing academic competitions. Inspired by this, a nucleus of eager students coalesced, birthing an embryonic organization right before our eyes. This nascent group was driven by a collective passion for learning and the tantalizing prospect of future competition participation.

Our team, steadfast in our commitment to nurturing growth. We remained in close contact, offering guidance, resources, and encouragement as they embarked on this promising new chapter. Our aim was to cultivate this budding sprout, ensuring it received the nourishment it needed to thrive. We recognized that the journey ahead was fraught with challenges but was also brimming with potential. By providing a sturdy foundation of support, we hoped to see this early organization flourish, transforming from a small cluster of interested individuals into a formidable team, ready to make their mark on the world of iGEM.

At Shandong Second Medical University, we were thrilled to observe a transformation that resonated with our objectives. The atmosphere shifted dramatically. There was a palpable excitement as they uncovered a plethora of unique advantages that participation in iGEM could offer, particularly in the therapeutic and diagnostic tracks. It was evident that the students were captivated by the potential for impactful innovation within these domains, realizing that their background in medicine could be a significant asset in the competition.

During the 'Evaluate' phase, we, OUC-Haide, took a trip with interested students through the university's laboratories. It was here that the true potential of their medical labs became evident. We discovered a landscape replete with well-developed laboratory and expertise, a revelation that underscored the distinctive value they could bring to the iGEM community.

Throughout the lab tours, safety was at the forefront of our concerns. As a team, we at OUC-Haide place a premium on safety, and it was reassuring to see that the university maintained well-regulated and secure laboratory conditions. This commitment to safety not only aligned with iGEM's core values but also reflected the institution has the ability to fostering a responsible and ethical scientific environment for iGEM participation despite it is a non-double-class university.

As the students' understanding of iGEM expanded, they began to see it in a new light. They realized that iGEM could serve as a catalyst for personal and professional growth, offering opportunities to enhance their skills and contribute to their chosen field. This recognition prompted many to integrate iGEM into their personal development plans, acknowledging it as a pivotal step in achieving their academic and professional aspirations.

By collaborating in this manner, we not only enrich our project with diverse perspectives and competencies but also foster a spirit of community and shared learning. This collaborative approach is a testament to our belief in the power of teamwork and the value of pooling resources to achieve common goals, especially in the realm of scientific exploration and innovation.

From our instructor's perspective, iGEM serves as a gateway to international elements, imbuing one's education with a rich diversity and global dimension that traditional, non-internationalized education often lacks. It encourages a broadened worldview, facilitating connections with a multitude of people from all corners of the globe and enabling the acquisition of a vast array of knowledge across various disciplines. This experience is particularly advantageous during the postgraduate phase, offering immense assistance in fostering a collaborative mindset and a comprehensive, internationalized skill set, which are highly valued in today's interconnected academic and professional landscapes.

Transplanting

Inequality – China

Figure6. Participation status of iGEM teams from Mainland China since the inception of the competition Click on the Graphic for Details

Figure7. Participation status of iGEM teams from Mainland China across various age groups Click on the Graphic for Details

Figure8. The proportion of mainland Chinese teams in iGEM teams Click on the Graphic for Details

Figure9. The proportion of mainland Chinese high school students Click on the Graphic for Details

Figure10. Number of mainland Chinese iGEM undergraduate and overgraduate teams by province Click on the Graphic for Details

China is the country that has the most teams in the realm of the International Genetically Engineered Machine (iGEM) competition, proudly boasts nearly half of the global teams by 2023—a testament to its growing prowess in synthetic biology. Yet, beneath this veneer of success lies a sobering reality of educational inequality. The disparities are not confined to the two previously highlighted issues: the disproportionate impact of regional and economic factors, and the skewed ratio of high school to postgraduate student participation. There's an additional, intriguing dimension to this complexity—a revelation that caught us off guard.

Figure11. Number of mainland Chinese iGEM entries by province and GDP by province Click on the Graphic for Details

A surprising revelation is that a region's economic strength does not correlate with the number of iGEM teams it hosts. This counterintuitive finding underscores the necessity of our rigorous data analysis, steering us away from perpetuating stereotypes by solely focusing our outreach efforts on underprivileged areas. Instead, it highlights the critical importance of our education work, indicating that awareness of iGEM is significantly lacking even in more developed regions. In response, we have launched targeted educational initiatives to address this disparity.

Teachers’ interview

With each iteration, our educational endeavors expanded like ripples on a pond, their reach stretching wider across a rich tapestry of demographics and economic landscapes. We no longer confined our efforts to the familiar; instead, our focus turned to the underserved.

Honoring the commitment of transplanting the sprouts of iGEM onto broader and more varied grounds, we ensure that our outreach was not only extensive but also impactful and tailored to the specific needs of each community, we invested in deeper, more comprehensive interviews. These conversations were the bedrock upon which we built our strategies, allowing us to craft outreach programs with an unprecedented level of precision and efficacy.

Our investigative journey began with a deliberate and illuminating step into the heart of Henan Province—a region notably absent from the iGEM team map. Guided by a mission to uncover the unseen, we made our way to the storied halls of Henan Experimental High School, where we sought the wisdom and insights of Mr. Luo Wei.

As a seasoned biology teacher and class teacher with an intimate understanding of his students' lives, Mr. Luo shared invaluable insights, painting a vivid picture of the escalating academic pressures in Henan. He highlighted that despite the commendable enhancement in students' specialized knowledge, the sheer intensity of their schedules, leaves little room for extracurricular pursuits such as scientific competitions. Moreover, the economic climate of Henan, less developed compared to its peers, adds a long cast a shadow, creating an information chasm between the students of Henan Province and their counterparts in more economically prosperous regions. Parents, often uninformed about the very existence of iGEM, were a stark reminder of the challenges that stemmed from regional economic disparities.

Yet, a glimmer of hope has emerged in recent times. As our interlocutor pointed out, today's students are imbued with a spirit of innovation, a trait that is increasingly being nurtured alongside the gradual upliftment of economic conditions. What was once perceived as a formidable barrier, the cost of participation, is now gradually receding into the background, no longer the insurmountable obstacle it once was.

In this evolving landscape, the most pressing need is one that aligns seamlessly with our core strength—enlightenment education. Our aim is not merely to inform but to inspire—a task that requires a nuanced understanding of the local context and a creative approach to outreach. By leveraging our strengths in education and engagement, we can foster an environment, igniting the curiosity of students and earning the support of parents. This approach not only enhances the visibility of iGEM but also nurtures a new generation of innovators, prepared to embrace the challenges and opportunities of synthetic biology.

In pursuit of a more comprehensive understanding and gender equality, our team embarked on a significant journey to Shanxi Province, a region also notably lacking in iGEM representation. Xinzhou Senior High School was our destination, where we sought the insights of an experienced female educator Ms. Zhang Fan, whose wisdom proved invaluable in shaping our mission.

She shared our concerns over educational disparities, acutely aware of the stark contrast in resources and accessible information for her students compared to their counterparts in more affluent provinces.

As a high school teacher, her perspective was useful, offering us a fresh vantage point that complemented our efforts. Her insights illuminated an overlooked area in our outreach initiatives—the younger demographic. She advocated for a broader educational foundation, urging us to expand our age coverage for educational activities. Her rationale was clear: by investing in the education of younger students, we could better prepare them for iGEM participation at the high school level and beyond.

Heeding her advice, we recognized the importance of sowing the seeds of knowledge early on. We realized that a solid educational base was the cornerstone for future success in iGEM. Without it, high school students might struggle to meet the foundational requirements for participation, hindering the formation of competitive teams. Inspired by her insights, we designed workshops and learning materials that catered to the cognitive development of younger students, focusing on attractive utilization of biology and synthetic biology.

Motivated by a quest to uncover the reasons behind the conspicuous absence of iGEM participation among institutions that seemingly had all the prerequisites, we set our sights on Zhengzhou University—a quintessential case study. This university is equipped with state-of-the-art synthetic biology facilities and a community of dedicated professors and postgraduate students specializing in the field. Despite its prestigious status as a 211 university, Zhengzhou University had not ventured into the iGEM arena. Preliminary investigations through a survey among undergraduates further highlighted the disconnect, with a startling revelation that the majority were unfamiliar with iGEM altogether.

Upon our arrival, we engaged in meaningful dialogues with knowledgeable professors and postgraduate students, determined to unearth the underlying causes of this underrepresentation and explore potential solutions.

It became abundantly clear that the crux of the issue lay in a pervasive lack of awareness about iGEM. The faculty and student body were largely uninformed about the benefits and significance of the competition—a realization that prompted us to take immediate action.

In response to this knowledge gap, we resolved to conduct an enlightening presentation at Zhengzhou University, not only to raise awareness about iGEM but also to provide a more comprehensive roadmap for team formation as previous guidance was limited to undergraduate students.

Dual-pronged

In response to this multifaceted challenge finded by data collection and analysis, we adopted a dual-pronged strategy, designed to tackle both issues and full age coverage simultaneously.

First, we initiated programs that provided age-specific enlightenment and popularization of science(educational) programs to regions where educational resources were scarce, ensuring that the foundational knowledge of synthetic biology was accessible to a wider demographic.

We took the advice of the experienced teachers and created interactive game, the best edutainment tool.

Tailoring our approach to the primary school demographic, we made full use of the flying chess that we designed last year that was as captivating as they were educational, designed to demystify the wonders of scientific exploration.

Inspired by W.B. Yeats' profound words, "Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire," we aimed to spark a passion for science within the young minds, igniting a flame of curiosity that would burn brightly throughout their educational journey. The introduction of a synthetic biology-themed board game was a hit among the children, blending education with entertainment in a way that not only introduced what scientists and researchers do but also imparted valuable scientific knowledge through play.

For our audience of junior high school students, who already harbored a budding interest in biology, we upped the ante. We designed quizzes that were both complex and stimulating, added in a modified version of the board game, seamlessly weaving the principles of synthetic biology into the fabric of the activity.

Rules of OUC-HAIDE iGEM flight chess

Four players take on the roles of Yeast, Dextran, Melanin, and Pullulan, each equipped with four game pieces. Starting clockwise from Yeast, players roll the dice, needing a six to set out. The number they roll thereafter determines how many spaces they move forward. Landing precisely on spaces like the Research Room, Lab, Academic Conference, or Thesis Defense Shelter, later arrivals do not force the former occupants to return to the starting point. Outside these shelters, if two game pieces meet, the later arrival draws a Question-Answer card and poses a question to the one who arrived first. A correct answer allows both to coexist; an incorrect answer sends the first arrival back to the start. The first player to get four game pieces to the END wins the game!

Drawing from Issac Newton's timeless wisdom, "If I have seen further, it is by standing on the shoulders of giants," we were committed to building upon previous efforts, refining and innovating our methods to ensure that the sessions were not only educational but also enjoyable.

Secondly, in our ongoing quest to broaden the reach of iGEM, a significant step involved a more comprehensive and multifaceted outreach and mentoring program. We zeroed in on regions that were already well-equipped with the necessary infrastructure for synthetic biology research. Our overarching goal was to address the nagging lack of iGEM education that has long hindered these areas, paving the way for a more inclusive iGEM community where a broader, more diverse group of students could flourish.

With the lessons from the 'Examine' phase at the forefront of our minds, we prioritized interest cultivation and engagement. This led us to organize a groundbreaking debate competition that united undergraduate students from a myriad of disciplines across six different universities.

This gathering was nothing short of an intellectual melting pot, featuring students from sophomore majoring in Electrical Engineering and Automation at Beihang University, Data Science and Big Data Technology at Jinan University, Software at South China University of Technology, Automation at Shandong University of Technology, Clinical Pharmacy at Shandong Second Medical University, to undergraduate students majoring in Electronics and Information Engineering at Harbin Institute of Technology (Weihai).

The participating institutions, spanning the spectrum from lesser-known universities like Shandong Second Medical University mentioned before, which does not belong to the prestigious 'Double First-Class' category, to the highly esteemed 985 and 211 universities, such as Harbin Engineering University, which boasts a national ranking of 13, showcased the vast academic landscape we aimed to impact. The conspicuous absence of iGEM teams at these institutions was a stark reminder of the critical role our educational initiatives play in bridging the gap.

At Zhengzhou University, we took our efforts to new heights. We ventured beyond the undergraduate level, disrupting the conventional approach by engaging with graduate students. Recognizing the significant void in graduate-level participation, we orchestrated a roundtable discussion, fostering a two-way conversation that proved both enlightening and empowering. This innovative approach was a testament to our commitment to creating a more inclusive iGEM community, one that embraces a wider array of academic backgrounds and experiences.

Through these interactions, we aimed to build a bridge that would connect the realms of undergraduate and graduate education, enriching the iGEM community with a broader array of perspectives and experiences.

Our endeavors at Zhengzhou University were particularly innovative, as we delved deep into the university's internal communication platfotm, connecting with undergraduate students who expressed interest in the competition. However, our vision was not confined to this level. We broke new ground by reaching upwards, initiating dialogues with graduate students, a demographic that had been notably absent from previous iGEM interactions.

International Genetically Engineered Machine (iGEM) Competition Consultation & Guidance

We are the OUC-Haide team, hailing from the Ocean University of China, reaching out to enthusiastic students interested in embarking on the iGEM journey with us. Our aim is to forge a team at Zhengzhou University, and our call isn't confined to biology majors alone. iGEM, an acronym for International Genetically Engineered Machine Competition, is a premier international undergraduate science contest in the vibrant field of synthetic biology. Yet, its reach extends beyond, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration with mathematics, computer science, statistics, and more. Originally targeted at undergraduates, iGEM has evolved to embrace graduate and high school students, broadening its horizons.
Multidisciplinary iGEM teams are tasked with utilizing standardized biological components, known as Biobricks, to construct genetic circuits, develop impactful mathematical models, and adeptly predict, manipulate, and measure the intricacies of synthetic biological systems to meet the competition's demands. Students are challenged to select their own topics, collaborate in their free time, and complete experimental work, honing their independent academic prowess and teamwork skills, all while cultivating a profound love for science.
iGEM is more than just a research project; it's a comprehensive endeavor. Participants are tasked with designing a project website, mathematical modeling, creating engaging posters, and conducting social outreach to enlighten the public about synthetic biology, pushing the boundaries of their abilities. The fruits of their labor, research findings of significant value, are submitted to the competition's organizing committee at MIT, offering a platform for global scientists to share in the team's discoveries.
Beyond the competition, iGEM provides a unique international stage for students from diverse countries and disciplines to exchange ideas, fostering a global community of innovation and collaboration.

Triumphs

The effusive praise and palpable excitement from the students were a heartening music of success to our ears. In the realm of the primary school, our game acted as a magical key, unlocking for several young minds the treasure chest of biology and scientific research for the very first time. They were attracted by the flight chess. The possibility of pursuing a scientific career sparked in them like a constellation of dreams, lighting up their imaginations and aspirations.

Among the junior high school students, who had once perceived biology as a base thus boring subject, we observed a transformation. Their newfound enthusiasm for biology and the cutting-edge field of synthetic biology was like a sudden bloom in a barren garden. They looked at us with admiration, marveling at the impressive outcomes of our projects and the boundless potential of synthetic biology.

The effect was surprisingly good, so that when the students received the flying chess designed for junior high school students, they acted very solemn and moved, thinking it as an affirmation and encouragement of their own.

The sessions we conducted impact evidently in the palpable empowerment and excitement that rippled through students of both age groups. The seeds of curiosity we planted seemed to have taken root, and the students were more than eager to nurture them into full-fledged passions, like young gardeners tending to their first sprouts. Our outreach efforts successfully fostered a love for science, nurturing curiosity, and empowering the next generation of scientific minds to dream big and reach for the stars.

Our interaction with the professors and students from Zhengzhou University was a revelation in itself. We had a series of in-depth discussions and questions. The conversation about our project was rich and reflective, indicating their genuine intrigue. The professors were inspired and encouraged the students to form a team and participate in the competition, with the generous support of OUC-Haide.

Our dual-pronged approach, which targeted both the immediate disparities in educational opportunities and the broader goal of break logjams of information gaps and iGEM education inequality, was a testament to our vision of planting interests. We aimed not just to bridge gaps but to build bridges, inviting students from every corner of society to join us in iGEM, the thrilling quest of synthetic biology. Our goal was to harness the full potential of iGEM as a platform for innovation and collaboration, a place where the next big breakthrough could be born from the collaboration of diverse minds. By doing so, we were not just cultivating a community; we were nurturing a future where the boundaries of what's possible would be pushed further than ever before.

Branches

Challenges

Figure12. Participation status of iGEM teams around the world since the inception of the competition Click on the Graphic for Details

The number of teams participating in iGEM, the world's premier Synthetic Biology contest, is on the rise, a clear testament to the event's amplified outreach and growing global impact. Bridging the gap from campus corners to international stages, iGEM is increasingly captivating young talents, igniting their passion for exploration and innovation in Synthetic Biology.

Figure13. Participation status of iGEM teams around the world across various age groups Click on the Graphic for Details

Figure14. The relationship between GDP per capita and the number of iGEM teams Click on the Graphic for Details

Figure15. The relationship between the level of education and the number of participating teams Click on the Graphic for Details

Figure16. The proportion of teams in Europe Click on the Graphic for Details

Figure17. The proportion of teams in Asia Click on the Graphic for Details

Figure18. The proportion of teams in North America Click on the Graphic for Details

In Asia, the disparity within continents is particularly pronounced, with China accounting for more than 80 per cent of undergraduate teams and all other countries combined less than 20 per cent. Even if the population of a country is an important factor, this level still falls short of what we think of as educational equality. In North America, all 45 undergraduate teams come from just two countries: the United States and Canada.

Figure19. The proportion of teams by continents Click on the Graphic for Details

When we expanded our analysis to a global scale, we were confronted with a striking disparity: the iGEM competition was predominantly populated by teams from Asia, Europe, and North America, with only three teams from Africa, two from Oceania, and two from South America. This stark imbalance compels us to prioritize educational outreach in these underrepresented continents, as such a significant gap demands urgent attention and concerted efforts to bridge it.

Internet

To delve into the nuanced heart of the disparities in iGEM participation in each continent, we set our gaze upon Japan—a nation celebrated for its technological prowess and economic vitality, yet intriguingly, it stood as a less active participant in the iGEM arena when juxtaposed against its Asian neighbor, China. We embarked on a detailed interview with YuuYuzuki, our mission clear: to excavate the multifaceted factors that propel or hinder participation in this distinguished synthetic biology competition. Each conversation was a thread in the tapestry, weaving a complex narrative of influences that sculpt a nation's engagement with iGEM, revealing the intricate barriers and motivators encountered by Japanese students.

The interviews revealed that local schools in some regions exhibit less enthusiasm for students' participation in international competitions like iGEM. This disparity in institutional encouragement poses an additional hurdle to engagement. In subsequent iterations, we are committed to increasing our engagement with educators and administrators at international schools. By forging stronger ties and collaborating with teachers, we aim to address and overcome institutional barriers, thereby creating a more conducive environment for students looking to explore the exciting world of synthetic biology through iGEM.

With a renewed sense of purpose and urgency, we embarked on a strategic redirection. We embraced the digital era's infinite potential, leveraging the vast networks of educational institutions to amplify our reach. The cornerstone of our renewed strategy was the orchestration of virtual conferences, meticulously designed to foster a dynamic and interactive dialogue.

Our initial foray was a targeted outreach to Oceania, a region that had previously been conspicuously underrepresented in the iGEM community. We conducted in-depth surveys across four diverse schools in Australia, a preliminary step that was essential for tailoring our messaging and understanding the unique challenges and opportunities in this region. This strategic move was not merely an outreach; it was a bridge-building effort, aiming to initiate a two-way conversation where gaps were widest.

Figure20. Interview with Jojo Zhao from The University of Melbourne

Figure21. Interview with Marshall Yuan from The University of Adelaide

Figure22. Interview with Emily Davis from the University of New South Wales

Figure23. Interview with Alexander Thompson from the University of Sydney

The surveys illuminated the educational landscape, the students' interests, and the barriers to participation, guiding us in tailoring our future conferences and educational content. This survey-driven approach was pivotal, enabling us to refine and optimize our outreach efforts, ensuring that each step taken was not just reactive but proactively designed to improve pertinence.

Through our diligent inquiries including the debate before and these interviews, a significant revelation emerged: a chasm of awareness persisted. Students outside the biological sciences were often ignorant of the myriad roles they could assume within a team. The lack of understanding about synthetic biology, combined with a dearth of knowledge regarding the iGEM competition, posed formidable barriers to Japanese students' enthusiasm and participation, most of whose strengths were not biology. Herein lies the imperative to catalyze interdisciplinary integration and innovation, to foster a more inclusive iGEM landscape.

For students new to iGEM, one might anticipate a plethora of guidance ready to lead eager students through the iGEM journey. Yet, our investigation uncovered a striking paradox: the absence of comprehensive, straightforward tutorials that could demystify the process of joining the iGEM community. This revelation underscores a pivotal opportunity for iGEM education to harness the internet's potential, transcending traditional barriers and engaging a more diverse, global audience.

Interests & barriers

The first phase is anchored in the power of narrative. We envision a series of compelling podcasts, each episode serving as a beacon to illuminate the innovative horizons of our synthetic biology project. These auditory journeys are meticulously crafted to resonate with the inquisitive minds of students, kindling their passion for science and drawing them into the thrilling world of synthetic biology.

Figure24. The Light of Biology, Building Future Together podcast

Innovative inclusivity takes center stage in our second phase. We are pioneering the development of an intuitive and user-friendly tutorial and already tried to use it that not only demystifies the intricacies of iGEM but also revolutionizes the way students approach scientific challenges. By leveraging engaging learning methods, this interactive tutorial used in conversations transforms the daunting into the accessible, making iGEM's rich opportunities more inviting to a broader audience.

Beyond that, we've also crafted a handbook. Our leader, who initiated OUC-Haide from scratch, boasts extensive experience in team formation, making our journey from team building to participating in iGEM an ideal case study for novices eager to learn from the ground up and establish their own teams for the competition. Transformed into a guidebook, this wealth of experience is not only shared online but also distributed in print to fellow students with an interest in iGEM. It serves as an invaluable resource, offering guidance and inspiration for their own team-building and competition endeavors.

In our ‘Examine’ phase, we unearthed a regional disparity that had never taken center stage in previous iterations—the level of support from schools. Thanks to our exhaustive research, this crucial factor didn't escape our notice. As we moved into the ‘Nudge’ phase, our focus honed in on this critical insight, leading us to our second PI, Dr. Xu Zhimeng. As a joint faculty member of both the University of Adelaide and Ocean University of China, no one was better poised to serve as the bridge between our team and Australia.

Bright

The interviews conducted with the Japanese student unveiled that knowledge gap translated into a lack of interest in joining the competition. However, a shift in attitude was observed when students, especially those from non-biology disciplines, were educated about the diverse roles and impactful work they could undertake within an iGEM team.

Figure25. Interview with Yuu Yuzuki again to get feedback

Feedback from the interviews also highlighted the need to communicate more effectively the tangible benefits that iGEM participation can offer to students. Emphasizing these benefits could substantially increase the support of Asian students' parents and bolster the students' personal desire to become involved. This emphasis is crucial in the Asian context, where academic competition is intense, and students are often motivated to pursue extracurricular activities that can distinguish them from their peers in college applications.

Before the campaigns, most students expressed confusion and uncertainty about the iGEM competition. However, after our educational outreachs, there was a noticeable change in their responses. They expressed a greater understanding of the competition and a renewed sense of confidence in their abilities.

Figure26. Comparison of the attitude of examine interview and evaluate interview

The tutorial we designed fostered a sense of confidence and capability among students, empowering them to take part in iGEM. By simplifying the path to participation, we open the doors to a world of possibilities for students who might otherwise be intimidated by the technicalities of synthetic biology. It is a testament to our commitment to nurturing a community where curiosity is sparked, barriers are dismantled, and the spirit of innovation thrives, creating a truly inclusive and diverse competition landscape.

With the invaluable support of Dr. Xu, we are more likely to translate our sprouting interest into tangible action. His assistance has illuminated a clearer path towards our goal of global greening, making the prospect of a greener future, one that spans continents, all the more promising. Our collaboration with Dr. Xu not only strengthens our ties with Australian educational institutions but also opens up new avenues for international cooperation, fostering a global community dedicated to iGEM education equality and scientific advancement.

Greening

Antibiotics

As we said in description, in 2020, antibiotic usage in livestock in numerous countries across Asia, Oceania, and South America surpassed the international recommended standard of 50mg/PCU (Population Correction Unit) by more than double, with China's usage reaching 208mg/PCU, approximately quadruple the international threshold^[1]. This overuse exacerbates the global crisis of antibiotic resistance.

In response to a study published in The Lancet demonstrated that interventions restricting antibiotic use in food-producing animals significantly reduced antibiotic-resistant bacteria^[2], the World Health Organization (WHO) advised in 2017 that farmers and the food industry cease routine antibiotic use for promoting growth and preventing disease in healthy animals^[3]. According to Announcement No. 194 of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of the People's Republic of China, in order to safeguard the safety of animal-derived food and public health, China has completely banned the addition of antibiotics to feed^[4]. These recommendations aimed to preserve the efficacy of antibiotics crucial for human medicine by reducing their unnecessary use in animals.

Yet, the European Union's ban on antibiotic use in animal feed revealed unintended consequences, such as increased animal infections and reduced productivity^[5]. In the initial phase following the ban, heightened disease incidence paradoxically increased the demand for antibiotic use, resulting in a net rise in antibiotic consumption. However, after implementing a series of management and preventive measures, including recommendations for preventative strategies to accompany antibiotic prescriptions, there was a notable decline in antibiotic usage. Experience has shown that singular measures are often insufficient to rectify the situation. Intensive education of producers by the Swedish Animal Health Service, coupled with the implementation of optimal management conditions, has proven to be a critical component in addressing this challenge.^[6]

Figure27. Total sale of antibacterial substances for animal use in Sweden[6]

Drawing lessons from Europe, it's clear that managing antibiotic use in livestock farming is more complex than mere restriction or prohibition. A comprehensive approach is required. We will embark on understanding the current landscape and leverage our product to address this dire situation, aiming to strike a balance between animal health, production efficiency, and the critical need to combat the looming threat of antibiotic resistance.

By exploring the status quo and introducing our product, we are committed to improving upon this grim reality by education, where animal health and welfare are prioritized, and the integrity of antibiotics as a vital medical resource is preserved. Our endeavors are not merely about replacing antibiotics but about fostering a farming ecosystem that is resilient, efficient, and mindful of the broader public health implications of our education.

Field research

In anticipation of our outreach initiatives to downstream users, we embarked upon a meticulously planned phase of preliminary investigation and groundwork. Our central mission was to ensure the safe, responsible and effective utilization of our product within production contexts.

To achieve this, we initiated detailed discussions with the administration of Nanfanjia Village government, focusing on pressing issues of production safety and biosecurity. These officials, endowed with a wealth of experience and expertise, provided us with a wealth of guidance and supplementary insights.

To better comprehend the prevailing market standards, we proceeded to the Animal Health Supervision Bureau in Gaoxing Town, China. This specialized department, renowned for its authority and proficiency in the supervision and management of animal disease control and animal product safety, offered us a valuable opportunity to learn. We gained deep, firsthand knowledge of animal quarantine and product safety standards and measures. Furthermore, we were privileged to learn techniques for instructing farmers on the implementation of safety protocols and best practices, which we eagerly absorbed to enhance our outreach efforts.

Following this, we ventured to the Livestock Development Center in Dai County and the Xinzhou Agricultural Bureau to gain insights into the current landscape faced by livestock farmers. As anticipated, we observed that farmers often lacked adequate knowledge and education, leading to the existence of issues such as the overuse of antibiotics among individual farmers. In light of this discovery, we resolved to not only disseminate information about our antibiotic alternatives but also to undertake a significant educational campaign on the hazards of antibiotic misuse. We are dedicated to minimizing the deleterious effects of antibiotic resistance by promoting responsible practices and raising awareness among farmers.

Figure28. the Livestock Development Center in Dai County

Figure29. Xinzhou Agricultural Bureau

Our visit to the Tengzhou City Animal Quarantine Declaration Station proved to be a pivotal moment, revealing an important group of potential users that had hitherto been overlooked by us: feed producers. Our initial plan had concentrated primarily on farmers who directly interact with animals. This realization prompted us to broaden our horizon, integrating communication with feed producers into our strategic planning. This expansion is crucial for ensuring a more comprehensive and inclusive outreach strategy.

To guarantee the correct and effective application of our technology, we sought the wisdom of Professor He Yan, an authority in the field of aquaculture. Through our extensive conversations with her, we explored the practical applications of beta-glucans in fish farming. Her vast experience and insight led to the provision of practical recommendations. She also emphasized the environmental implications of using as feed additives, particularly the impact on water quality in aquaculture settings. Under her guidance, we developed detailed experimental plans to monitor these effects. This proactive approach will be instrumental in our ongoing surveillance of water quality once our product is in use, significantly alleviating potential risks and user concerns.

To further our commitment to enhancing safety and ethical standards, we sought the counsel of Professor Qu Zhe. She illuminated that a lack of oversight and guidance often results in misuse. Inspired by her insights, we are placing a heightened focus on ethics and safety education, beginning with the utilization of beta-glucans. By learning from historical lessons, we are determined to prevent the recurrence of similar tragedies by education, ensuring that our products are not only effective but also used responsibly and ethically.

Unveil

Heeding the recommendations garnered during our Examine phase from the Tengzhou City Animal Quarantine Declaration Station, we embarked on a mission to engage with Shandong Chengji Feed Co., Ltd. and Shandong Helen Food Co., Ltd. These interactions were pivotal in our pursuit of innovative solutions and underscored our commitment to public values.
Shandong Chengji Feed Co., Ltd. shared their predicament following the Chinese government's ban on antibiotic additives.

They had transitioned to alternative additives, but the efficacy of these substitutes was widely questioned. This led to farmers independently adding antibiotics to feed, a practice that could potentially exacerbate issues compared to the controlled administration by feed manufacturers. They expressed frustration and a quest for novel additives. Upon our initial visit, they were quick to assure us that cost was not a concern, possibly under the assumption that synthetic biology products are typically expensive. We are keenly aware that users often perceive synthetic biology products as expensive because of the high technical content of their front-end development and the novelty of the technology. The rest of our journey is focused on dispelling this stereotype and lowering the barriers to use synthetic biology products.
Shandong Helen Food Co., Ltd. represented a new avenue for us.

During our Human Practice (HP) and Education efforts, the education leader of our team encountered a personal hardship when her pet dog fell ill, incurring significant medical expenses. Drawing parallels with our project, she fervently advocated for the expansion of our applications to pet healthcare. Our collective deliberation led us to the conclusion that HP and Education should transcend the confines of our specific track, exploring broader horizons. This prompted our outreach to pet food manufacturers, where we innovatively proposed the inclusion of β-glucan in pet treats as an immune booster to prevent illnesses.

We highlighted the potential cost savings in medical bills by consuming a relatively inexpensive glucan as a compelling selling point.

Having pinpointed critical needs, our education initiatives flourished, successfully imparting novel usage methodologies to a variety of feed manufacturers.

We systematically advanced our education efforts across three pivotal stages: Production, Sales, Usage. In the pet industry, the Sales phase often involves pet hospitals. We visited two establishments, the Affiliated Animal Hospital of Henan University of Animal Husbandry and Economy and the Zhongnong Pet Clinic.

At the Affiliated Animal Hospital, our aim was to understand their approach to drug and supplement selection.

However, we were surprised to learn that veterinarians, who should ideally be at the forefront of ensuring safe and effective use, lacked autonomy in brand or type selection. These decisions were instead made by the hospital's owner from a commercial perspective. This revelation was disconcerting, prompting us to share our knowledge of drug standards acquired during the Examine phase.

We encouraged them to adopt a more rigorous and scientific approach, emphasizing the importance of drug efficacy in their decision-making process.
The Zhongnong Pet Clinic presented a unique opportunity.

We discovered an immune-enhancing product, but its sales were lackluster due to its high cost and unclear effects.

The clinic stocked only one such product amidst a vast array of supplements, indicating a significant market demand and gap for immune-enhancing agents. We seized the moment to showcase our β-glucan, touting its superior efficacy, reasonable pricing, and user-friendly application.

Our dialogue with farmers, the primary consumers of feed and products, was extensive. Our HP work not only elucidated the gaps in public knowledge regarding immune enhancers but also highlighted the misuse of antibiotics among individual farmers. We undertook the responsibility of educating farmers about the perils of antibiotic overuse and the merits of β-glucan as a viable alternative, enriching their understanding and expertise.

At Rizhao Marine Fisheries Resources Breeding Co., Ltd., we learned about the cumbersome feeding methods employed. We elucidated the properties and superiority of β-glucan, emphasizing its role in animal health. Our solution streamlined feeding processes while mitigating pollution, a stark improvement over conventional methods. We also shared feeding techniques from Professor He Yan to ensure minimized risks and maximized benefits.

Beyond standard fish farming, we engaged with seahorse breeders, a specialized group.

Unlike conventional livestock and fish, seahorse farming relies on frozen dried fish and shrimp, a process with suboptimal sterilization, potentially leading to infections. We proposed an innovative solution: combining β-glucan with frozen feed to reduce disease occurrences.

Echoing insights from our Examine phase, individual poultry farmers in Jiajinkou Town, Gongyi City, lacked standards or guidelines for antibiotic use.

Their knowledge was rudimentary, with scant consideration of antibiotic resistance or alternatives. We imparted correct usage guidelines and advocating for antibiotic monitoring and introduced antibiotic alternatives such as our product, emphasizing the importance of surveillance.

At Leran Ecological Agriculture Co., Ltd., housing a substantial poultry population, they were troubled with susceptibility of poultry to intestinal microbial diseases, exacerbated by high-density farming.

They regular administrates antibiotics but the cessation of medication prior to slaughter posed significant risks. We presented our product as a safe alternative, alleviating disease-related anxieties and reducing antibiotic dependence, a proposition of immense value.

Our visits extended to larger livestock farms, including Changming Dairy Farm in Gaocun Town, Xingyang City, Huifeng Agricultural and Animal Husbandry in Sishui Town, and Henan Academy of Agricultural Sciences Cattle Industry Technology Co., Ltd.

While these farms adhered to more regimented drug protocols, their awareness of antibiotic resistance was limited. Current alternatives proved less effective than traditional antibiotics. Our introduction was received with enthusiasm, akin to the unveiling of a new era, as they eagerly sought superior disease control, even at a higher cost. We elucidated that the cutting-edge nature of synthetic biology products does not inherently dictate a prohibitive price tag.

Fruits

Owing to the superior qualities of β-glucan, which include maintaining stability at high temperatures of 120 degrees Celsius, requiring minimal addition for effective results, and our enhanced production efficiency, feed manufacturers expressed enthusiasm for incorporating this cost-effective product with distinctive advantages and market appeal into their offerings.

Our educational outreach at veterinary clinics proved to be enlightening. Subsequent engagements revealed that both farmers and pet owners heavily rely on veterinarians' professional guidance for medication and supplement use. Initially, we were surprised to find that experienced veterinarians, prior to our visit, did not emphasize the selection of brands and types of drugs and supplements. Following our presentations, however, the veterinarians assured us that they would adhere to established standards in their choices, providing us with a degree of reassurance.

Given this context, our awareness campaigns targeting a diverse range of farmers assumed significant importance and urgent necessity. In follow-up interviews aimed at gathering feedback from farmers, we were heartened to observe that they had gained a clear understanding of the adverse effects of antibiotic overuse.

Notably, three large farms—Henan Academy of Agricultural Sciences Cattle Industry Technology Co., Ltd., Changming Dairy Farm in Gaocun Town, and Huifeng Agricultural and Animal Husbandry in Fanqiu Town—expressed a willingness to experiment with our novel antibiotic alternative. Huifeng Agricultural and Animal Husbandry, initially concerned about costs, was reassured after education and agreed to a trial. Henan Academy of Agricultural Sciences Cattle Industry Technology Co., Ltd., as a research and development entity, even offered to serve as a testbed for future application experiments, a gesture that significantly boosted our morale and affirmed the effectiveness of our education and promotional efforts.

Future “plants”

Throughout our educational endeavors, we have keenly appreciated the profound impact of the "GENE cycles" on our work. Thanks to our meticulous data analysis and comprehensive preliminary research, our outreach activities have resonated well with participants and garnered valuable feedback during the evaluation phase. We’ll be steadfast in our commitment to harnessing the "GENE cycles" for identifying issues, conducting thorough investigations, executing practical solutions, and refining our approaches through feedback.

We will maintain ongoing engagement, monitoring the growth of the seeds we have sown and the nascent organizations we have nurtured, offering support and guidance until they mature into sturdy trees that can, in turn, support the growth of the next generation of plants.

Upon our final iteration, we established connections with numerous partners. We intend to strengthen these relationships, inviting them to be the first to experience the fruits of our labor in these communities, and we will diligently track whether the nutritional benefits of our efforts are being effectively absorbed and utilized.

In the spirit of continuous improvement and collaboration, our interactions with these partners will serve as a testament to the power of collective action and shared knowledge. By ensuring that our initiatives are not only impactful but also enriching for all involved, we aim to cultivate a thriving ecosystem where sustainable practices and innovative solutions take root and flourish. Our dedication to monitoring the long-term effects of our work exemplifies our belief in fostering not just short-term successes, but enduring legacies that benefit the environment and communities we serve.

References

[1] Mulchandani, R., Wang, Y., Gilbert, M., & Van Boeckel, T. P. (2023). Global trends in antimicrobial use in food-producing animals: 2020 to 2030. PLOS Global Public Health, 3(2), e0001305. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pgph.0001305
[2] Tang, K. L., Caffrey, N. P., Nóbrega, D. B., Cork, S. C., Ronksley, P. E., Barkema, H. W., Polachek, A. J., Ganshorn, H., Sharma, N., Kellner, J. D., & Ghali, W. A. (2017). Restricting the use of antibiotics in food-producing animals and its associations with antibiotic resistance in food-producing animals and human beings: a systematic review and meta-analysis. The Lancet Planetary Health, 1(8), e316–e327. https://doi.org/10.1016/s2542-5196(17)30141-9
[3] World Health Organization. (2017, November 7). Stop using antibiotics in healthy animals to prevent the spread of antibiotic resistance. News Release. https://www.who.int/news/item/07-11-2017-stop-using-antibiotics-in-healthy-animals-to-prevent-the-spread-of-antibiotic-resistance
[4] 畜牧兽医局. (n.d.). 中华人民共和国农业农村部公告 第194号.http://www.xmsyj.moa.gov.cn/zcjd/201907/t20190710_6320678.htm
[5] Cheng, G., Hao, H., Xie, S., Wang, X., Dai, M., Huang, L., & Yuan, Z. (2014). Antibiotic alternatives: the substitution of antibiotics in animal husbandry? Frontiers in Microbiology, 5. https://doi.org/10.3389/fmicb.2014.00217
[6] Wierup, M. (2001). The Swedish Experience of the 1986 Year Ban of Antimicrobial Growth Promoters, with Special Reference to Animal Health, Disease Prevention, Productivity, and Usage of Antimicrobials. Microbial Drug Resistance, 7(2), 183–190. https://doi.org/10.1089/10766290152045066
[7] ”GENE cycle” Created with BioGDP.com