PERCEPTIONS OF BIOINFORMATICS IN PLANT BREEDING AMONG NIGERIAN STUDENTS
Keywords:
Bio information; Computational biology; Student awareness; Precision breeding.Abstract
Bioinformatics is increasingly essential across biology, agriculture, medicine, and environmental sciences due to the growing demand for advanced data-driven research. In plant breeding, it enables analysis of complex genomic datasets to enhance yield, resilience to biotic and abiotic stresses, and nutritional quality. This study assessed awareness, understanding, interest, and perceived challenges related to bioinformatics among plant breeding students in Nigerian Universities through an online survey distributed via Google Forms. Responses were collected from Undergraduate, Graduate, and Post-graduate students, with measures implemented to prevent duplication. Findings revealed high awareness (83.7%) and substantial understanding of bioinformatics concepts (71.8%). Interest was particularly strong among postgraduate students, with 89.7% recognizing its importance for the future of plant breeding. Key challenges included insufficient interdisciplinary training, curriculum limitations, and inadequate computational resources. Despite these barriers, 93.7% of respondents supported introduction of dedicated bioinformatics courses. Students further anticipated that bioinformatics would accelerate plant breeding through predictive modeling and contribute significantly to food security. The findings emphasize the urgent need for strengthened bioinformatics education, faculty training, and infrastructural support in Nigerian Universities to equip future plant breeders with essential computational skills.
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