Developing Business Networks and Community Outreach in Mango Sector
The Sixth Annual Multan Mango Festival took place from July 3-5, 2022, at DHA Arena Multan, with the theme “Developing Business Networks and Community Outreach.” Inaugurated by Minister of State for Interior Mr. Abdur Rehman Kanju, the festival aimed to promote mango farming and industry collaboration. The event featured over 100 stalls showcasing more than 300 mango cultivars and included various festive activities such as competitions, cultural shows, and exhibitions. The festival provided a platform for stakeholders in the mango industry to network, address challenges, and enhance the mango supply chain.
Consultative session on Climate Change related Mango Production Challenges
During the Mango Festival 2022, a consultative session titled “Climate Change and Mango Production Challenges” was held, chaired by Punjab Agriculture Minister Mr. Syed Hussain Jahanian Gardezi. The session addressed the impact of climate change on mango production, highlighting issues such as heat waves, water shortages, and pest attacks affecting varieties like Sufaid Chaunsa and Anwar Ratol. Speakers, including senior scientists and industry stakeholders, discussed solutions like mulching, efficient irrigation, and developing value-added mango products. The session emphasized the need for organized, professional mango cultivation to enhance productivity and combat climate change challenges.
Annual Mango Festival – Centaurus Mall, Islamabad
The Mango Festival at Centaurus Mall, Islamabad, from July 22-24, 2022, aimed to showcase mango diversity, promote business potential, and brand Multan as “the Mango Capital” of Pakistan. Organized in collaboration with the Mango Research Institute, Multan, the event featured over 60 mango varieties on 13 stalls and attracted around 30,000 visitors. Key attendees included President Azad Kashmir Barrister Sultan Mehmood Chaudhary and Deputy Chairman Senate Mirza Muhammad Afridi. The festival highlighted the economic importance of mangoes and received strong public and stakeholder participation.
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Mango Festival at Lahore
The Mango Festival was jointly organized by MNSUMA University of Agriculture, Multan, and DeSom Services Club, Lahore, from July 17-19, 2022, in partnership with progressive mango growers and exporters. The festival’s objectives were to showcase varietal diversity, mango value addition and Pakistan’s export potential. Members of the DeSom Services Club praised MNSUAM’s and growers’ efforts to raise awareness about the importance of mangoes. About 3000 families of registered members of DeSom Club visited mango diversity stalls displaying 150 mango varieties. The closing ceremony of this event was held on July 19, 2022. The efforts of MNSUAM for arranging the successful event in DeSom were recognized at the closing ceremony. Overall, this event provided a wonderful opportunity for mango production, supply, and value chain awareness, branding, and networking.
MNSUAM Delegation Visited Corteva Agri Science
On July 27, 2022, MNSUAM faculty members, led by Prof. Dr. Asif Ali, visited Corteva Agriscience’s research center in Renala Khurd. Prof. Dr. Asif Ali emphasized bilateral cooperation, local innovation inclusion, and the use of modern technology like drones for agriculture issues.
The visit highlighted Corteva’s focus on maize hybrid seed manufacturing and interest in other crops. Both sides committed to joint research activities, with a call for hands-on drone technology training and the promotion of MNSUAM’s biopesticides. Key participants included Prof. Dr. Shafqat Saeed, Prof. Dr. Hammad Nadeem Tahir, and representatives from Corteva Agriscience.
International Seminar on Bio pesticides
On August 24, 2022, the Institute of Plant Protection at MNSUAM hosted an international seminar on bio pesticide development. The seminar featured Dr. Belinda Mary, Dr. Keith Andrew, and Dr. Naeem Aslam from CABI UK. They discussed the basics of bio pesticides, success stories like the Green Muscle project, and the use of modern technologies such as satellite and UAVs for pest control. The seminar included a briefing on biotechnology in pest management and an overview of ongoing research at MNSUAM. The event concluded with a mutual agreement on future collaboration, the presentation of souvenirs to the guests, and a visit to MNSUAM’s Central Lab, where the delegation also participated in tree planting.
Capacity Building Workshop on Clean Cotton
On August 24, 2022, MNSUAM, supported by the World Wildlife Fund, organized a Farmers Training Workshop on agricultural measures for achieving clean cotton at Jalalpur Pirwala Experimental Farm. About 75 participants learned about cotton picking, integrated pest control, and effective pesticide use. Dr. Abdul Ghaffar emphasized the importance of clean cotton picking for high-quality ginning. Dr. Muhammad Ishtiaq and Dr. Amar Matloob discussed the benefits of integrated pest management (IPM) and weed control. Dr. Muqarrab Ali highlighted Pakistan’s cotton production status and the need for contamination-free cotton. WWF’s Mr. Fawad Sufian covered sustainable cotton production practices. The workshop concluded with a Q&A session and acknowledgments from Dr. Hafiz Mohkham Hammad.
Prospects of Kitchen Gardening
On September 27, 2022, MNSUAM, in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture Extension, Jalalpur Pirwala, organized a seminar on “Prospects of Kitchen Gardening” at Govt. Associate College, Jalalpur Pirwala. The seminar, attended by 100 participants, covered the benefits of kitchen gardening, including vegetable nursery and seed kits, nutrient management, and the concept of “grow healthy, eat healthy.” Attendees learned about vegetable production at the household level. Healthy winter vegetable seedlings and seed kits were distributed to promote kitchen gardening. Prof. Abdul Shakoor Shakir, Principal of the college, praised MNSUAM’s efforts in promoting clean vegetable production at the household level.
Poster Competition held to Mark World Cotton Day
World Cotton Day was observed at MNSUAM on October 7, 2022, with a poster competition among postgraduate students to raise awareness about cotton crop issues and research solutions. Students presented their research through informative posters, with about 75 entries. Mr. Saqib Ali Ateel, Secretary Agriculture, South Punjab, attended the event, praised the students’ work, and discussed the benefits of botanical sprays, PB ropes, and insect traps in reducing chemical use. Each student had a five-minute presentation followed by a Q&A session. Ateel emphasized the effectiveness of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and encouraged farmers to adopt this method.
MNSUAM Celebrated World Food Day
World Food Day 2022 was held on October 16 by the Department of Food Science and Technology, themed “Safe Food Today for a Healthy Tomorrow – Climate Change Threats to Food Security.” The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Dr. Asif Ali, highlighted the theme’s components, stressing the importance of food production, cooking, and preservation in agricultural systems. He urged a return to traditional, nutritious diets and diversification to combat malnutrition.
Addition Secretary Agriculture, Mr. Imtiaz Ahmad Warraich, spoke on balanced nutrition, the rise in diabetes, and the importance of avoiding processed foods. Muhammad Umair Hanif, DG Punjab Food Authority, highlighted global food wastage and the need for more vegetables and fruits in diets.
Mr. Ehtisham ul Haq emphasized reducing food wastage and incorporating balanced diet education into curricula. Mr. Saif Ur Rehman suggested that the food processing industry should develop value-added products to reduce fruit and vegetable waste. Dr. Umar Farooq, Chairman of FS&T, called for collective efforts to address hunger. The event included free testing of milk, spices, and turmeric samples by the Punjab Food Authority and was attended by many students and faculty members.
DICE-AFS Innovation Event 2022
On October 30-31, 2022, MNS University of Agriculture, Multan, in collaboration with the DICE Foundation USA, hosted the DICE AFS & Innovation Event 2022. The event, held at the University, featured an innovation competition and industrial expo showcasing agricultural and food science projects. Over 141 student ideas were presented, and agro-based industrial stalls were displayed. The event attracted hundreds of students, faculty, and industry professionals from across Pakistan. Renowned speakers from academia, industry, and government participated in seminars, sharing insights on various topics. The event received extensive coverage from print and electronic media at both local and national levels.
Wheat Productivity Enhancement Campaign and Wheat Seed Distribution Drive:
On November 9, 2022, MNSUAM organized a wheat productivity enhancement campaign and seed distribution drive for flood-affected farmers in Basti Mamuri, Dera Ghazi Khan. The event, attended by MNSUAM VC Prof. Dr. Asif Ali and Ghazi University VC Prof. Dr. Kamran, distributed quality wheat seeds to 200 farmers and provided agricultural inputs for 145 acres through the Farms in Arms Project. The campaign also included vegetable nursery distribution for kitchen gardening. The initiative aims to aid flood-affected farmers and increase per-acre yields, with support and consultancy from MNSUAM experts and Ghazi University. The event saw participation from Agriculture Extension staff and numerous volunteer students.
Farmers Training Workshop to maximize Wheat Productivity:
On November 14, 2022, MNSUAM hosted a Farmers Training Workshop at Jalalpur Pirwala Farm to educate farmers on modern wheat production techniques and encourage increased cultivation. The event, led by Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Asif Ali (T.I), featured expert presentations on climate-smart practices, improved germplasm, and wheat pathology, along with interactive discussions and field demonstrations. Emphasizing the need to boost wheat production by three maunds per acre, the workshop highlighted the importance of timely sowing, mechanization, and quality inputs. Prof. Dr. Ali urged farmers to utilize government subsidies and adopt modern techniques to enhance production and address climate challenges.
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International Webinar on Heat Stress in Poultry-MNSUAM
The Department of Poultry Science at MNSUAM, in collaboration with ORIC, hosted an international webinar titled “Heat Stress in Poultry: Brain Endocrinology and Physiology.” Led by Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Asif Ali (T.I), the event featured Dr. Gregory S. Fraley from Purdue University as the guest speaker. Prof. Dr. Asif Ali highlighted the severe climate challenges faced by Pakistan’s poultry industry, particularly during the summer. Dr. Fraley discussed his research on the impact of heat stress on poultry, focusing on changes in brain endocrinology and physiology. He emphasized the need for a combination of parameters to evaluate stress levels in birds and suggested that proper poultry house design, ventilation, and reduced bird activity can help mitigate heat stress. Dr. Junaid Ali Khan concluded the webinar by stressing the importance of understanding the physiological effects of stress on poultry at a micro level.
Third International Conference on Smart Plant Protection
The Institute of Plant Protection at MNS University of Agriculture organized an International Conference on Smart Plant Protection on January 03-04, 2023. The conference focused on innovations in plant protection to combat insect pests, plant pathogens, and weeds, featuring research from students, academia, and industry worldwide. It fostered networking and collaboration among scientists, researchers, policymakers, business leaders, civil society, and farmers.
Out of over 200 submitted abstracts, 50 were presented. The event was inaugurated by Dr. Ghulam Muhammad Ali, Chairman of the Pakistan Agricultural Research Council, and concluded with Dr. Faisal Zahoor, Secretary of Agriculture, as the chief guest. The conference highlighted critical research areas, with assurances from Dr. Zahoor that the recommendations would be developed into future research projects and presented to farmers in local languages.
Agreement of Cooperation between MNSUAM and Rise AG, Pakistan
On January 12, 2022, MNS University of Agriculture, Multan, and Rise AG, Pakistan, signed an “Agreement of Cooperation” to collaborate on initiatives benefiting the farming community. Rise AG will assist in establishing research laboratories at the university, focusing on the development and commercialization of bio-stimulants and bio-pesticides for crops such as mango, cotton, and maize. This partnership aims to promote environmentally friendly alternatives to synthetic agrochemicals, reducing their harmful impacts on public health and the environment. Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Asif Ali (T.I.) expressed gratitude to Rise AG’s CEO, Mr. Ghulam Farid, and looked forward to further cooperation in agricultural research. Key university officials and representatives from Rise AG attended the ceremony.
Training Workshop on Kitchen Gardening MNSUAM:
MNS-University of Agriculture, Multan, in collaboration with ACIAR-ASSIB, organized a capacity-building session for farmers involved in Project Bright Spot-2 in Dera Habbat. Fourteen participants received hands-on training in advanced vegetable nursery raising techniques and kitchen garden management under saline conditions. The workshop covered topics such as growing media preparation, sowing seeds of tomato, pumpkin, cauliflower, and luffa, and managing plants like tomato, bell pepper, and broccoli in pots. The aim was to promote clean, household-level vegetable production. Mr. Syed Ali from the SOFT team emphasized that kitchen gardening is a viable way to produce healthy, chemical-free vegetables, reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
Farmer’s Field Day on Precision Agricultural Technologies-MNSUAM:
On February 9, 2023, a Farmer’s Field Day focused on “Precision Agricultural Technologies” was jointly organized by MNS University of Agriculture, Multan, PMAS Arid Agriculture University, Rawalpindi, and Fatima Fertilizers (Pvt.) Ltd. at MNSUAM’s Sports Ground. The event, graced by Mr. Hussain Jahanian Gardezi, Ex-Minister of Agriculture Punjab, aimed to introduce South Punjab farmers to cutting-edge precision agricultural technologies. Prof. Dr. Shafqat Saeed, Dean FAES, welcomed participants and highlighted the benefits of precision agriculture, such as variable application rates, eco-friendly pesticide use, digital pest monitoring, and automated irrigation systems. The event featured demonstrations of advanced technologies, including Drone Spray, satellite mapping, Precision Orchard Spray, and Auto Steering Tractors. The Field Day attracted progressive growers, farmers, researchers, media, faculty, and students, showcasing the latest innovations in precision agriculture.
Digital Agribusiness Marketing in Pakistan: Challenges and Opportunities for Pulses Growers:
On February 10, 2023, a workshop titled “Digital Agribusiness Marketing in Pakistan: Challenges and Opportunities for Pulses Growers” was organized by MNSUAM, NARC, and UAF under the ACIAR-funded project “Digital Value Chain Solutions for Smallholders Pulses Farmers in Pakistan” at the Social Sciences Research Institute, NARC, Islamabad, coinciding with World Pulses Day. The workshop attracted around 50 participants, including over 25 pulse growers from Punjab and KPK, academicians, researchers, and industrial partners from Concave Agri. Key discussions emphasized the potential of digital marketing tools in providing direct market access for farmers, with Prof. Dr. Mubashir Mehdi highlighting the opportunities in branding and online sales of pulses. Mr. Ali Iqbal, CEO of Concave Agri, introduced their online advisory platform for farmers, offering services from market information to sales. Farmers expressed interest in joining the initiative to improve returns, and Concave Agri agreed to provide necessary training. Plans for a MoU between farmers and industry partners were also discussed. Dr. Muhammad Shahbaz underscored the value of collaboration between academia and the food industry for mutual benefits.
Long-term weather forecast and management interventions for wheat crop:
On February 14, 2023, the Department of Agronomy at MNSUAM, in collaboration with the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), Islamabad, organized a webinar titled “Long-term Weather Forecast and Management Interventions for Wheat Crop.” The webinar aimed to provide long-term weather forecasts to wheat growers in South Punjab and facilitate agronomic decision-making. Over 100 participants, including agricultural extension workers, researchers, academicians, and wheat growers, attended the event.
Dr. Dildar Hussain Kazmi, a meteorologist from PMD, presented a forecast covering temperature, heat, rainfall, and drought scenarios from February to April. Prof. Dr. Abdul Ghaffar and Dr. Muhammad Habib-Ur-Rahman discussed agronomic management strategies under the prevailing weather conditions, emphasizing the need for light irrigation during critical grain formation phases in March. Prof. Dr. Ashfaq Ahmed from UAF and Dr. Muhammad Arslan also contributed insights on agronomic practices and disease management. The session concluded with a discussion on short- and long-term strategies for wheat crop management and a note of thanks from Prof. Dr. Shafqat Saeed, who also highlighted the forecast’s significance for managing mango crops during critical developmental stages.
Seminar on Medicinal Plants for Better Human Health-MNSUAM:
On February 17, 2023, the Plant for Life Society and the Department of Agronomy at MNSUAM hosted a seminar titled “Medicinal Plants for Better Human Health,” led by Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Asif Ali (T.I). Prof. Dr. Shazia Anjum from Islamia University, Bahawalpur, discussed the scientific cultivation and medicinal uses of plants, emphasizing their export potential for stabilizing Pakistan’s economy. Dr. Tauseef Sultan from Bahauddin Zakariya University presented findings on the restoration of medicinal plants in the Thal Area. Dr. Jameel Anwar Ghori and Rana Muhammad Abbas highlighted modern mass cultivation techniques for industrial use. Prof. Dr. Shafqat Saeed shared MNSUAM’s research on medicinal plants. Prof. Dr. Asif Ali underscored the need for value addition and supply chain improvements to promote the profitable cultivation and global export of Pakistan’s medicinal plants.
Farmers Convention on Hybrid Wheat-MNSUAM:
On February 21, 2023, a Farmers Convention focusing on Hybrid Wheat was jointly organized by MNSUAM and Fatima Fertilizer. The event drew significant participation from farmers, stakeholders, scientists, and personalities from various sectors. Prof. Dr. Asif Ali (T.I), Vice Chancellor of MNSUAM, emphasized the critical role of hybrid varieties in enhancing wheat production, drawing parallels with the success of maize hybrids.
He expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration between MNSUAM and Fatima Group, which aims to scale up hybrid wheat seed production, highlighting the University’s commitment to industry involvement in agricultural research and outreach. Australian scientist Dr. Richard Trethowan underscored the global importance of hybrid wheat in combating diseases and congratulated MNSUAM for its achievements. Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ashfaq discussed strategies to combat wheat rust, advocating for hybrid wheat as a key solution. Mr. Naseer Ullah Khan from Fatima Group stressed that hybrid wheat could enable Pakistan to meet domestic needs and potentially export surplus. Progressive farmers and experts, including Syed Fakhar Imam and Dr. Abid Mehmood, CEO of PARB, commended the initiative, recognizing hybrid wheat as a significant step towards food security. The convention concluded with farmers expressing their intent to adopt hybrid wheat in the future.
International Conference on Horticulture-MNSUAM:
The MNS Agricultural University in Multan hosted an International Conference on Horticulture from February 23-25, 2023, where over 250 research papers were presented by researchers from ten countries. The event emphasized the importance of modern agricultural technologies, disease-resistant and indigenous planting materials, and the need for better post-harvest handling to boost exports, particularly in date production. Prof. Dr. Asif Ali (T.I), Vice Chancellor of MNSUAM, highlighted the potential of using fertilizers and pesticides with minimal residues in horticulture, advocating for the promotion of local seeds due to their superior performance. The conference also stressed the necessity of integrated business models and effective marketing systems to enhance the timely delivery of produce to consumers.
Spring Flower Festival 2023-MNSUAM:
The Department of Horticulture at MNS University of Agriculture Multan organized a Spring Flower Festival from February 23-25, 2023, inaugurated by Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Asif Ali (T.I) along with other prominent figures. Various institutions, private organizations, and schools participated, showcasing vibrant stalls that highlighted the beauty of spring flowers. The festival, featuring contributions from entities such as Cantonment Board Multan, Emerson University, and Floriculture Research Institute Multan, attracted diverse groups of visitors who enjoyed the colorful displays. Prof. Dr. Asif Ali (T.I) emphasized the connection between nature’s beauty and the rejuvenation of human society during the event.
Fish Feed Formulation:
MNS-University of Agriculture Multan, in collaboration with the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research-Adapting to Salinity in the Southern Indus Basin (ACIAR-ASSIB), organized a capacity-building session on February 24, 2023, for farmers of Project Bright Spot-2 Dera Habbat. The session focused on fish feed formulation to improve the feed conversion ratio (FCR), providing hands-on training to 20 participants on calculating protein content in various feed ingredients and preparing affordable, high-quality fish feed.
The training aimed to reduce feed costs and improve water quality in fishponds, ultimately benefiting local fish farmers by enabling them to produce cost-effective feed that promotes better fish growth and ensures the provision of healthy fish to customers.
Food Safety Awareness Session for Food Handlers in Malik Food Industries:
On February 24, 2023, the Department of Food Science and Technology at MNSUAM organized a Food Safety Awareness Training Session at Malik Food Industries. Facilitated by Dr. Muhammad Shahbaz, Dr. Nida Firdous, and Mr. Muhammad Usman, the session focused on essential food safety protocols during handling, preparation, storage, and transportation of food products.
The session addressed technical questions and challenges faced by food business operators and handlers, offering solutions and guidance on advanced techniques and safety protocols. The team also conducted a plant visit to identify and address processing loopholes. Fifteen industry participants received training, and the department plans to conduct regular sessions to maintain strong linkages with the food industry.
Training Workshop on Weeds Management-MNSUAM:
On February 27, 2023, the Department of Agronomy at MNSUAM organized a hands-on training workshop focused on weed management. The workshop aimed to raise awareness about the economic and ecological importance of weeds and the benefits of effective, timely weed management in field crops. Around 50 participants received training on various aspects of sustainable weed management, including non-chemical methods, herbicide resistance, and safe pesticide use, all in the context of a changing climate. The event featured expert presentations, interactive discussions, and a field demonstration at the university’s Experimental Farm, where participants observed successful weed control practices. Practical training was provided by Dr. Amar Matloob and Dr. Khurram Mubeen, followed by a Q&A session to address participants’ queries.
All Pakistan 32nd Conference of Pakistan Society of Food Technologists-MNSUAM:
“After steadily declining for a decade, world hunger is on the rise, affecting nearly 10% of the people globally. From 2019 to 2022, the number of undernourished people grew by as many as 150 million, a crisis driven largely by conflict, climate change, and the COVID-19 pandemic.” Prof. Dr. Faqir Muhammad Anjum
The 32nd All Pakistan Food Scientists and Technologists Conference, held on March 8-9, 2023, at Bahauddin Zakariya University Multan, focused on “Food Crisis in Pakistan: Opportunities and Solutions.” Organized by BZU and MNS University of Agriculture Multan, the conference addressed the escalating food crisis exacerbated by conflict, climate change, and COVID-19. Key discussions emphasized the urgent need for government action, including reducing food waste and improving infrastructure. The event featured a competition on food product development to highlight the role of innovation in strengthening food security.
Training Workshop on the Use of Soil Survey Techniques-MNSUAM:
“Soil survey is an important factor in agriculture, and with its help, it is possible to save resources in agriculture.” Prof. Dr. Tanveer-Ul-Haq
On March 9, 2023, the Department of Soil and Environmental Sciences at MNSUAM, in collaboration with the Soil Survey of Punjab, organized a comprehensive training on soil surveying techniques.
The training, led by Dr. Mohammad Atiq-Ur-Rehman and Dr. Tassaduq Saleem, aimed to enhance the capacity of farmers, students, and community members in effective soil management. Prof. Dr. Tanveer-Ul-Haq emphasized the importance of soil surveying for resource optimization in agriculture. The session included presentations, a Q&A segment, and practical demonstrations of soil profiling. The event concluded with acknowledgments and a commitment to addressing soil issues collaboratively.
Workshop on Skill Development in Young Food Professionals-MNSUAM:
“When done right, skills development can reduce un- and underemployment, increase productivity and improve standards of living. Helping people develop and update their skills makes economic sense.” Prof. Dr. Asif Ali (T.I)
On March 20, 2023, the Department of Food Science and Technology at MNSUAM hosted a one-day workshop titled “Skill Development in Young Food Professionals.” The workshop aimed to enhance the professional skills of youth, with Prof. Dr. Asif Ali (T.I.), Vice Chancellor of MNSUAM, highlighting the importance of skill development for reducing unemployment and improving living standards. Mian Sajid Hameed, a consultant and trainer, led the workshop, focusing on independence, mental capacity, and practical challenges faced by young professionals. The session, attended by 200 students from the Department of Food Science and Technology, also included contributions from faculty members. The workshop concluded with the distribution of certificates to participants.
Wildlife Conservation Drive-MNSUAM:
“Protecting wildlife and preserving it for future generations can help the animals to not become a distant memory and we can maintain a healthy and functional ecosystem.” Prof. Dr. Asif Ali (T.I)
The Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences at MNSUAM organized a Wildlife Conservation Drive on March 22, 2023, featuring a poster exhibition, awareness walk, and seminar with 180 student participants. The event aimed to highlight the critical importance of wildlife and forest conservation. Prof. Dr. Asif Ali (T.I), Vice Chancellor, emphasized the need to protect wildlife for future generations to maintain a healthy ecosystem, while Prof. Dr. Muhammad Asif Raza, Dean FVAS, spoke on the vital resources provided by forests and wildlife. Seminar speakers addressed various threats to wildlife, including habitat loss, climate change, and marine pollution. The event concluded with a pledge to promote wildlife conservation.
Awareness Walk on World Water Day-MNSUAM:
On March 22, 2023, the Department of Agricultural Engineering at MNS University of Agriculture Multan celebrated World Water Day by organizing an awareness walk focused on accelerating change to solve the water and sanitation crisis. Led by Dr. Sarfraz Hashim, the event emphasized sustainable water management and presented solutions for effective resource use. Over 100 participants joined the walk, showcasing posters on water conservation and scarcity issues. Dr. Mohsin Nawaz highlighted the critical importance of water in agriculture and daily life, stressing efficient usage to save water for future generations. The event aimed to bring attention to growing water-related challenges. Faculty members, including Dr. Muhammad Saifullah, Engr. Abdul Aleem, Dr. Umair Sultan, Dr. Muhammad Abid, Engr. Shahzad, Dr. Shazia Hanif, Dr. Mohsin Khan, and Engr. Saqib, actively participated, demonstrating the university’s commitment to preserving water resources.
Training Session on Kitchen Gardening- DHA, Multan:
“Kitchen gardening is the only option which provides us healthy, economical and chemical free fruits and vegetables for maintaining a healthy diet.” Col. Asad Khan Laghari
MNS-University of Agriculture Multan organized a capacity building session for the DHA Multan Parks and Horticulture team, focusing on advanced vegetable nursery raising techniques and kitchen garden management for 10 participants. The training provided hands-on experience in preparing growing media, filling multi-pot trays, and sowing seeds of Tomato, Pumpkin, Cauliflower, and Luffa, as well as managing tomato and broccoli plants in pots. The session aimed to promote healthy, home-grown vegetable production by teaching participants advanced techniques in nursery raising, transplanting, hardening, and root pruning. The university also supplied 900 seedlings of various summer vegetables for kitchen gardens at DHA Multan. Col. Asad Khan Laghari, Director of DHA Multan Parks and Horticulture emphasized the health benefits of daily fruit and vegetable consumption and highlighted kitchen gardening to produce healthy, chemical-free vegetables.
INTERNATIONAL PLANT APPRECIATION DAY-MNSUAM:
“Indoor plants play an important role not only in decorating our homes, for aromatic purposes but also as natural cleansers, purifying the pollutants in our houses making them naturally cleaner and healthier.” Prof. Dr. Asif Ali (T.I.)
On April 13, 2023, MNS University of Agriculture Multan celebrated World Plant Appreciation Day, organized by the Plant for Life Society (PLS). The event featured an art gallery and plant exhibition, showcasing the society’s creativity, including homemade yellow plant hugs made from waste materials to symbolize love for plants.
Various species of indoor plants were planted using organic fertilizers. Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Asif Ali (T.I.) highlighted the role of indoor plants in home decoration, air purification, and aromatics, urging students to actively promote the importance of plants in society. The event brought together plant enthusiasts from across the city and concluded with PLS distributing over 100 free plants to civil society members.
Drone Sprayer and 3D Scanner Training Workshop-MNSUAM:
“The integration of modern hi-tech technologies in agriculture can significantly improve efficiency, sustainability, and productivity, thereby benefiting farmers and the nation’s economy.” Prof. Dr. Asif Ali (T.I.)
On June 1, 2023, MNS University of Agriculture Multan, in collaboration with the Agricultural Mechanization Research Institute (AMRI) Multan, hosted a workshop on drone sprayers and 3D scanners. The event, attended by students, faculty, and progressive growers, aimed to showcase modern agricultural technologies.
Prof. Dr. Asif Ali (T.I.), Vice-Chancellor of MNSUAM, highlighted the importance of integrating hi-tech solutions to enhance agricultural efficiency and sustainability. Mr. Shahzad from AMRI praised the collaboration and urged participants to adopt these technologies to advance Pakistan’s agriculture. The workshop included practical demonstrations of drone sprayers for precision pesticide application and 3D scanners for detailed crop and machinery analysis, offering valuable insights into their applications and benefits for modern farming.
International World Food Safety Day Seminar-MNSUAM
“Negligence of food safety protocols leads to the death of approximately 160,000 people every year because of food-borne diseases. Academia, industry, and regulatory bodies must work together to ensure food safety.” Prof. Dr. Asif Ali (T.I.)
On June 7, 2023, MNS University of Agriculture Multan (MNSUAM) marked World Food Safety Day with a seminar organized by the Department of Food Science and Technology and the Faculty of Food and Home Sciences. The event, attended by university leadership, industry representatives, and regulatory authorities, emphasized the critical importance of food safety. Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. Asif Ali (T.I.) and other speakers highlighted the dire consequences of neglecting food safety and encouraged students to gain practical knowledge through internships. The Punjab Food Authority provided free food and water testing services, analyzing samples to demonstrate the importance of adhering to global safety standards. The seminar concluded with a walk to raise awareness, drawing over 200 participants, including prominent industry figures and university faculty.
Inauguration of Corn Cob Picker & Field Demonstration-MNSUAM:
“MNSUAM, together with the industrial sector, will keep on building a future where agricultural technology continues to evolve, empowering farmers, and contributing to sustainable agricultural practices in the region.” Prof. Dr. Asif Ali (T.I.)
On June 13, 2023, MNS-University of Agriculture Multan (MNSUAM) achieved a significant milestone with the inauguration of a modern corn cob picker, marking a notable advancement in agricultural technology in the region. The event, led by Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. Asif Ali (T.I.), showcased the cutting-edge machine, a result of extensive research and collaboration between the university and industry partners like the Agriculture Mechanization Research Institute (AMRI) and Neelam Seeds. A live demonstration impressed the audience, highlighting the picker’s precision and efficiency. During the formal ceremony, Prof. Dr. Asif Ali emphasized the importance of such innovations in enhancing agricultural productivity and food security, while industry representatives underscored the value of ongoing collaboration between academia and the industrial sector in driving technological progress.