INTERNATIONAL SEMINAR WORLD FOOD SAFETY DAY
On June 7, 2024, the Department of Food Science and Technology, Faculty of Food and Home Sciences, MNS-University of Agriculture, Multan, organized an international seminar to mark World Food Safety Day under the theme “Prepare for the Unexpected.”
Key participants included Prof. Dr. Ishtiaq Ahmad Rajwana (Vice Chancellor), Prof. Dr. Umar Farooq (Dean), Dr. Muhammad Shahbaz (Chairman), representatives from Punjab Food Authority, Metro Pakistan, Eastern Scientific Corporation, and over 200 attendees from academia and the food industry.
Prof. Dr. Rajwana stressed the critical importance of food safety on campus and encouraged students to seek industry internships for practical exposure.
Guest speakers, including Mr. Amir Ramay (Eastern Scientific Corporation), Mr. Sagir Mehmood Khan (Metro AG), and Mr. Qaiser Javed (Metro Pakistan), highlighted the role of global standards in reducing foodborne illnesses, noting that 160,000 deaths occur annually due to unsafe food. The Dean emphasized key food safety principles: cleanliness, separation of raw/cooked items, thorough cooking, safe storage, and use of clean water and raw materials. A free food testing stall by Punjab Food Authority analysed milk, spices, and ghee. The seminar concluded with a food safety awareness walk.
Visit of farmers delegation from Balochistan to MNS-UAM
A delegation of farmers from Balochistan, along with representatives of the Flood Based Livelihoods Network (FBLN), visited MNS University of Agriculture, Multan for a three-day exposure and knowledge-sharing tour.
Key Visits and Demonstrations:
- Hydroponic Unit (Block-C): Farmers showed interest in the setup, inputs, benefits, and challenges of soilless cultivation.
- Floppy Irrigation System: Demonstrated and explained by Dr. Sarfraz Hashim and team.
- Conservation Strips: Highlighted for beneficial insect protection and environmental sustainability, briefed by Dr. Fawad Zafar Ahmad Khan.
- Small Tree System (Block-B): Explained by Dr. Kashif Razzaq, who emphasized economic benefits and best practices.
- Solar Dryer & Entrepreneurship Models (Block-A): Demonstrated by Ms. Beenish Sarfaraz, showcasing value addition and income generation tools.
- Spate Irrigation Model (Block-B): Explained by Dr. Khuram Mubeen as a climate-resilient water management approach.
- Mango Dryer Unit: Visited under guidance of Dr. Shabbir Ahmad from the Food Science Department.
The visit fostered learning in sustainable agriculture, resource conservation, entrepreneurship, and climate-smart practices.
International Conference on Bee Pollination & Conservation 2024
The International Conference on Bee Pollination & Conservation 2024 was held on May 20, 2024, at MNS University of Agriculture, Multan, in connection with World Bee Day. The event focused on the status, diversity, and conservation of native social and solitary bees, along with innovations in crop pollination and beekeeping practices.
Mr. Saqib Ali Ateel, Secretary Agriculture, South Punjab, served as the chief guest. The conference provided a dynamic platform for interaction among scientists, researchers, policymakers, practitioners, farmers, and beekeepers, promoting cross-sector collaboration and policy dialogue on pollinator conservation.
The event featured 6 keynote speakers from 5 countries (Argentina, USA, Australia, India, Brazil) and 15 presenters from 6 countries (Slovenia, Cuba, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Brazil). Major themes included bee biodiversity, conservation strategies, and sustainable beekeeping.
Aligned with the UN’s World Bee Day (May 20) and the 2024 theme “Bee Engaged with Youth”, the conference actively involved students through:
- A photo salon competition on bee foraging and nesting,
- A live poster competition linking bees and the Quran,
- Plantation of bee-friendly plants, and
- An awareness walk on the ecological importance of bees.
Merit shields were awarded to student winners and the chief guest, reinforcing youth engagement in biodiversity conservation.
AWARENESS SESSION ABOUT ELECTRIC VEHICLES
On May 3, 2024, the Society of Engineers and Technologists (SET) and Green Youth Movement (GYM) Club, in collaboration with students from LUMS, organized an awareness session at MNS University of Agriculture, Multan on electric four-wheeler technology and sustainability. The session focused on the functions, environmental benefits, and economic advantages of LUMS-developed electric vehicles (EVs).
Students actively participated in discussions around EV adoption challenges in Pakistan, including charging infrastructure, public awareness, and supportive policies. The session emphasized the role of academic institutions in promoting sustainable transportation and preparing future leaders for eco-friendly innovation.
VISIT OF AGRICULTURE MINISTER PUNJAB
On May 2, 2024, MNS University of Agriculture, Multan hosted a strategic meeting chaired by Punjab’s Agriculture Minister, Mr. Syed Muhammad Ashiq Hussain Kirmani, to review cotton farming progress and challenges. Key issues discussed included increased cotton area and production, climate impacts, high input costs, water scarcity, pests, and seed quality.
The Minister emphasized stronger media coverage of actions against fake pesticides and set a target of 4 million acres for cotton cultivation in 2024. Plans included regional meetings, strict enforcement against counterfeit inputs, use of modern machinery, R&D support, accurate data collection, and improved outreach for government support programs. Collaborative efforts between public and private sectors were encouraged to strengthen Pakistan’s cotton industry.
Baisakhi Festival Celebrated at MNSUAM Research Farm
On April 25, 2024, MNS University of Agriculture, Multan, celebrated the Baisakhi Festival at its Research Farm in Jalalpur Peerwala, marking the wheat harvest season. Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Ishtiaq A. Rajwana emphasized wheat’s central role in Pakistan’s food security and encouraged the adoption of modern cultivation practices for increased productivity. Prof. Dr. Abdul Ghaffar, Director University Farms, highlighted the transformation of the 500-acre farm—now cultivating over 400 acres—despite developmental challenges. Efforts include introducing high-yielding hybrid wheat, expanding tree plantations, and implementing sustainable land management practices. Over 42,000 trees have been planted, including 14,000 in collaboration with WWF, enhancing biodiversity and addressing soil salinity. The event gathered faculty, farmers, and students, celebrating agricultural heritage while promoting innovation and environmental stewardship.
NATIONAL CONFERENCE ON AGRICULTURAL INNOVATIONS FOR FOOD SECURITY-MNSUAM
The Department of Agronomy at MNS-University of Agriculture, Multan, in collaboration with the Doaba Foundation, organized a National Conference on “Agricultural Innovations Towards Food Security” on April 24, 2024. The conference brought together experts, researchers, and stakeholders to explore climate-resilient agricultural practices and innovative solutions to enhance food security. Key discussions covered sustainable pest management, biotechnology, pulse-based cropping, and water-efficient irrigation techniques. Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Ishtiaq Ahmad Rajwana emphasized the university’s commitment to bridging academia, industry, and farming communities. Timed with the Baisakhi Festival and Farmers’ Day, the event reinforced MNSUAM’s efforts to promote agricultural innovation and climate adaptation.
SPRING FLOWER FESTIVAL 2024-MNSUAM
The Spring Flower Festival 2024 was organized by the Department of Horticulture and the Directorate of Estate Management at MNS University of Agriculture, Multan (MNSUAM) on March 7–8, 2024, in collaboration with the Pakistan Society of Horticultural Sciences. The event featured over 50 varieties of spring flowers and attracted students, faculty, floriculture experts, and industry stakeholders.
The festival served as a platform to promote floriculture, creative expression, and academic-industry engagement. Institutions like the Floriculture Research Institute Multan, Islamia University Bahawalpur, and Cantonment Board Multan contributed displays, while a concurrent student painting competition added a cultural dimension.
Prof. Dr. Ishtiaq Ahmad Rajwana, Vice Chancellor of MNSUAM, inaugurated the event, emphasizing that flowers symbolize peace, harmony, and environmental awareness. He reiterated the university’s commitment to promoting practical learning and sustainable practices. The event received broad media coverage from national outlets, including Rohi TV, Express News, and PTV.
Two Days Workshop on “Implementation of HACCP in Food Business”-MNSUAM
The Department of Food Science and Technology, MNSUAM, organized a two-day workshop on “Implementation of HACCP in Food Business” on February 13–14, 2024, to build youth capacity in food safety standards. The session was inaugurated by Prof. Dr. Ishtiaq Ahmad Rajwana, Vice Chancellor, who emphasized the significance of HACCP as a critical framework for ensuring food safety and professional excellence. Mr. Muhammad Ali Shahzaib, a Quality and Food Safety Professional from Metro Pakistan, conducted the training, providing in-depth guidance on the principles and practical application of Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP).
Over 200 students from the department participated actively. On the second day, a practical exposure visit to Metro Multan was arranged, allowing participants to observe HACCP implementation in a real-world commercial setting. The training enhanced students’ readiness to contribute to the food industry with a safety-first mindset. The workshop concluded with a certificate distribution ceremony, acknowledging the participants’ commitment to food safety excellence.
CORN COB PICKER MACHINE AND DRONE SPRAY DEMONSTRATION
On February 12, 2024, the Directorate of University Farms, MNSUAM, organized a hands-on demonstration of Corn Cob Picker Machine and Drone Spray Technology at Jalalpur Pirwala University Farms. The event, attended by students, faculty, and farmers, aimed to showcase the adoption of modern agricultural technologies. Dr. Abdul Ghaffar, Director University Farms, emphasized the critical role of innovation in enhancing efficiency, sustainability, and productivity in agriculture.
The corn cob picker, developed through university–industry collaboration, was demonstrated live, impressing participants with its speed, fuel efficiency, and harvesting precision. Farmers were briefed on technical details like planting geometry, fuel consumption, and cob tank capacity, and were offered machine access on a no-profit basis—a move praised by the farming community.
In addition, drone spraying technology was demonstrated, highlighting its benefits in precision application of pesticides and fertilizers. This method reduces chemical use, minimizes environmental harm, and boosts crop yields. The demonstration marked a pivotal step in promoting smart, resource-efficient, and climate-resilient agriculture.
World Soil Day 2023
On December 5, 2023, MNS University of Agriculture Multan (MNSUAM) celebrated World Soil Day 2023 through a seminar themed “Soil and Water: A Source of Life,” organized by the Department of Soil and Environmental Sciences in collaboration with FAO and NICE International. The event was graced by Prof. Dr. Asif Ali (T.I.), Vice Chancellor MNSUAM. Dr. Tanveer ul Haq highlighted the university’s commitment to sustainable solutions like solid waste management, constructed wetlands, solar energy, Miyawaki forests, and tree plantation. Guest speakers from Fuji Fertilizer, AARI, and NICE International emphasized MNSUAM’s leadership in environmental stewardship and encouraged practical conservation efforts. The event included student poster and model competitions, industry participation, and active engagement from faculty, farmers, and civil society.
Wheat Productivity Enhancement Workshop at JPP Farm
The Department of Agronomy, MNSUAM, in collaboration with Fatima Fertilizer Company Ltd. and the Agriculture Extension Department, organized a one-day Wheat Productivity Enhancement Workshop on November 16, 2023, at the university’s Jalalpur Pirwala Farm. The event aimed to equip farmers with climate-resilient and sustainable wheat cultivation practices. Experts including Prof. Dr. Abdul Ghaffar, Dr. Khuram Mubeen, and representatives from Fatima Fertilizer highlighted effective fertilizer use, sustainable weed management, and integrated disease control for achieving the target of 40+ mounds/acre. Over 150 participants, including farmers, students, and faculty, attended the session. Field demonstrations and interactive discussions provided practical insights. Prof. Dr. Shafqat Saeed reaffirmed the university’s dedication to farmer-centric agricultural development.
Capacity building workshop on “Soil Sampling Techniques and Methodology”-MNSUAM
Muhammad Nawaz Sharif University of Agriculture, Multan, in collaboration with PepsiCo, organized a capacity-building workshop on “Soil Sampling Techniques and Methodology” on November 14, 2023. The workshop, led by Dr. Umair Riaz, included ten PepsiCo representatives and focused on practical soil sampling skills essential for potato cultivation. Participants engaged in field-based training and composite sample preparation for laboratory analysis. Four MSc Soil Science students also participated, gaining hands-on experience. In the closing session, Dr. Abid Hussain highlighted ongoing collaborations between PepsiCo and MNSUAM for soil and water testing services. The initiative aimed to strengthen industry-academia ties and build capacity to address real-time agricultural challenges.
World Food Day 2023 – MNSUAM
The Department of Food Science and Technology, Faculty of Food and Home Sciences, MNSUAM organized a seminar on World Food Day, observed on October 16, 2023, under the theme “Water is Life, Water is Food.” The event was graced by Prof. Dr. Asif Ali (T.I.), Vice Chancellor MNSUAM, Capt. (R) Muhammad Mahmood, Secretary National Food Security, and Mr. Shahzad Hassan, CEO Freshco Multan, along with industrialists, Punjab Food Authority (PFA) officials, faculty, and students.
Prof. Dr. Umar Farooq, Dean FFHS, emphasized water conservation as key to sustainability for future generations. Ms. Abgeenay Khan, Director Operations, PFA Multan, praised the department’s efforts in raising awareness on such a critical issue. Mr. Javed Chaudhry, Chairman Water Association, highlighted water quality concerns in Multan, especially high arsenic levels, and the importance of RO systems for clean drinking water.
During the session, 30 students from the Department of Food Science and Technology were designated as PFA Ambassadors, committed to promoting food safety. The event concluded with the distribution of souvenirs to guests.
Inauguration of Freshco Sensory Lab – MNSUAM
On October 16, 2023, the Freshco Sensory Lab was inaugurated at MNS-University of Agriculture, Multan by Prof. Dr. Asif Ali (T.I.), Vice Chancellor, along with Captain (R) Mehmood, Secretary National Food Security, and Mr. Shahzad Hasan, CEO Freshco. Established with the support of Freshco Multan, the lab aims to facilitate sensory evaluation-based research and foster collaboration between academia and the food industry.
Prof. Dr. Umar Farooq, Dean of the Faculty of Food and Home Sciences, acknowledged Freshco’s contribution, emphasizing the lab’s role in enhancing students’ research capacity and supporting innovation in food product development. The lab will serve as a testing and development platform for both students and industries, boosting food quality and consumer research in the region.
Plant-Centric Meal Competition – MNSUAM
On September 7, 2023, the Faculty of Food and Home Sciences, MNSUAM organized a Plant-Centric Meal Competition, showcasing innovative pulses-based value-added food products. Over 50 students from various departments participated, presenting creative and nutritious plant-based meals.
The event was attended by Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Asif Ali (T.I.), an Australian delegation, and senior faculty. Dr. Asif Ali praised the students for their innovation and contribution to promoting healthy and sustainable food practices, noting their work brings recognition to the university and Pakistan at large. The Australian guests also commended the students’ creativity. Prizes were distributed among the winning teams.
Visit of Chief Minister Punjab to MNSUAM: A Roadmap for Sustainable Agriculture
On September 9, 2023, Chief Minister Punjab Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi, accompanied by cabinet members, secretaries, vice chancellors, and industry representatives, chaired a consultative session at MNS University of Agriculture, Multan (MNSUAM) to discuss the future of agriculture in Punjab.
Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Asif Ali (T.I.) highlighted MNSUAM’s contributions to sustainable agriculture, including initiatives like hybrid wheat seed production, flappy irrigation systems, biopesticides, smart traps, solar dryers, and the revival of cotton through collaborative campaigns.
The session emphasized public-private-academic partnerships, regulatory reforms, food and nutritional security, adoption of technology in farming, and climate-smart agriculture. Topics ranged from promoting minor crops, bio-stimulants, and digitization to precision agriculture, Agri-policy, seed certification, and value chain strengthening.
Key takeaways included:
- Establishing cluster farming, breeding centres, and extension reforms
- Supporting research funding, technology commercialization, and climate action
- Launching a Ministerial Committee to formulate sustainable agriculture research policy
Visit of Punjab Agriculture Minister to MNSUAM
Punjab Agriculture Minister Mr. S.M. Tanveer visited MNS University of Agriculture, Multan, where Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Asif Ali (T.I.) presented key research initiatives including wheat hybrid seed development, flappy irrigation systems, biopesticides, mango small tree systems, smart traps, and solar dryers—focused on uplifting farmers in South Punjab.
The visit was also attended by the Secretary Agriculture South Punjab, faculty deans, and professors. The minister, joined by the Vice Chancellor, participated in a tree plantation activity, symbolizing the university’s commitment to sustainable agriculture and environmental responsibility.
Inauguration of 500 KW Solar Energy System – MNSUAM
Muhammad Nawaz Sharif University of Agriculture Multan inaugurated a 500 KW solar energy system to promote clean energy and reduce operational costs. Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Asif Ali (T.I.) emphasized the importance of transitioning to eco-friendly energy sources amidst growing national power demands and reaffirmed the university’s commitment to expanding renewable energy use.
He appreciated the efforts of the Director P&D, ECD team, Engr. Abu Mazhar Ahmed, Registrar, and Treasurer for successfully completing the project under challenging conditions. The ceremony was attended by faculty members, administrative officials, representatives from the Bank of Punjab, and project contractors.
Inauguration of MNSUAM Display Corner
The Department of Food Science and Technology, Faculty of Food and Home Sciences, MNSUAM, inaugurated a Display Corner showcasing student-developed commercial products. Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Asif Ali (T.I.) led the inauguration alongside VCs from NMU, MNS-UET, Women University Multan, and the Principal of Nishtar Medical College.
The display featured a variety of food products, university souvenirs, and branded sports kits, aimed at enhancing students’ skills in product development, marketing, and commercialization. The initiative fosters innovation, entrepreneurship, and practical learning.
The initiative was widely appreciated by all dignitaries for promoting creativity, communication, teamwork, and modern career readiness among students. Faculty members including Prof. Dr. Irfan Ahmed Baig, Prof. Dr. Shafqat Saeed, Prof. Dr. Umar Farooq, Dr. Muhammad Shahbaz, and Dr. Binyamin Rana were present.
First Annual Thesis Display 2023 by FFHS-MNSUAM
The Department of Food Science and Technology, Faculty of Food and Home Sciences, MNSUAM, held its First Annual Thesis Display 2023, showcasing postgraduate research projects. The event drew participation from leading food industry professionals across South Punjab.
Prof. Dr. Asif Ali (T.I.), Vice-Chancellor emphasized the need for strong academia-industry collaboration, appreciating organizers Prof. Dr. Umar Farooq and Associate Prof. Dr. Muhammad Shahbaz. Industry leaders praised the student work and stressed that research should address national and industrial challenges, not just academic grades.
Distinguished guests included CEOs and directors from Volka Foods, Hafeez Ghee, Mix Foods, International Food Industries, Family Food Products, Spirit International, and others. Faculty members from FFHS also actively participated. Souvenirs were presented in appreciation of the guests’ support and collaboration.
7th Annual Mango Festival – MNSUAM
Muhammad Nawaz Shareef University of Agriculture Multan (MNSUAM), in collaboration with the Mango Research Institute and DHA Multan, organized the 7th Mango Festival, inaugurated by Governor Punjab, Engr. Muhammad Baligh Ur Rehman. He appreciated the establishment of the Mango Museum and emphasized the role of universities in enhancing mango production, packaging, and hygienic handling, especially by training small vendors.
Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. Asif Ali highlighted innovations such as disease-free nurseries, the Mango Small Tree System, AI-based fruit fly traps, Smart Chambers, and IT-driven mango marketing. The festival showcased the university’s Uni-Fresh mango brand and its global outreach, with planned events in Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and China.
Dr. Abdul Ghaffar (MRI) discussed nursery management, climate change impacts, and the need for subsidies on mango drying. Brig. Shoaib Anwar Kayani (DHA) shared DHA’s green initiatives, including planting 3,500 mango saplings and allocating 7% green space.
The festival concluded with the Governor inaugurating the Mango Museum and Botanical Garden, reinforcing MNSUAM’s commitment to mango sector development and sustainability.