Inauguration of Botanical Garden
On June 3, 2025, Muhammad Nawaz Sharif University of Agriculture, Multan, inaugurated a Botanical Garden at Block-A to promote agricultural research, enhance education, and benefit the campus community. The event, attended by Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Ishtiaq Ahmad Rajwana, faculty, staff, and students, began with a tree plantation drive, symbolizing environmental stewardship. Developed in collaboration with SNGPL under its IP-31 CSR initiative, the garden will serve as a hub for modern agricultural research and hands-on student training. Under the 2025 Development Vision, the university aims to expand such facilities to strengthen academia-industry linkages, improve agricultural productivity, and enhance technical skills.
Launch of Mobile Soil and Water Testing Laboratory
On May 23, 2025, Muhammad Nawaz Sharif University of Agriculture, Multan, inaugurated a Mobile Soil and Water Testing Laboratory to support farmers in remote areas. Equipped with modern tools and expert staff, the lab will provide on-site soil and water testing in regions such as DG Khan and Rajanpur, helping farmers improve soil fertility, crop productivity, and water efficiency. Developed by the Department of Agricultural Engineering in collaboration with EMS Pvt. Ltd., the lab will regularly visit rural areas, particularly in South Punjab, to strengthen farming systems. Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Ishtiaq Ahmad Rajwana emphasized that the initiative will enhance farmer livelihoods, ensure food security, and contribute to Pakistan’s agricultural development.
5th International Conference on Bee Pollination and Conservation
Muhammad Nawaz Shareef University of Agriculture, Multan, organized the 5th International Conference on Bee Pollination and Conservation from May 20 to 21, 2025. The event was organized by the Institute of Plant Protection and featured participation from more than 25 national and international scientists and experts. The conference focused on bee pollination, biodiversity, and the conservation of endangered bee species. Keynote addresses were delivered by renowned researchers from both Pakistan and abroad, who also participated online and presented their research findings. Topics included agricultural sustainability, crop productivity, and ecosystem balance. The speakers emphasized the urgent need for pollinator protection and sustainable practices in agriculture. The conference ended with the distribution of certificates and group photos with participants and speakers. The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Dr. Ishtiaq Ahmad Rajwana, praised the organizing team and reiterated the commitment of the university to promote scientific research and awareness in ecological conservation
Carbon Off-Setting Tree Plantation Campaign
The Carbon Offsetting Tree Plantation Campaign was launched at the research farm of Muhammad Nawaz Shareef University of Agriculture, Multan, in collaboration with Sui Gas Private Limited on March 25, 2025. 10,000 saplings of 18 varieties were planted. The chief guest of the inaugural ceremony was Mr. Karim Bakhsh, Additional Deputy Commissioner, Multan and DG PHA. The ceremony was specially attended by Sui Gas Company’s Binyamin Shahid, Chief Engineer Usman Karim Baig, General Manager Imran Khan, Usman Khan, Senior Manager and Talha Khalid, Executive Engineer. The chief guest of the program, Mr. Karim Bakhsh, DG PHA, highly appreciated this eco-friendly and climate change proof project of the university and Sui Northern Gas Pipeline and drew attention to the fact that the choice of Jalalpur Pirwala for this technology is a good choice because by cultivating such plants on barren lands, we can combat the threats posed by climate change in the future.
The chief guest expressed his intention that this project will not only help in reducing the effects of climate change, but rather the efforts of the university and the Sui Northern Gas Pipeline in the context of climate change will always be remembered internationally and in the future this project will also lead to the sale of carbon credits and an increase in foreign exchange. The Acting Vice Chancellor of the university, Professor Dr. Shafqat Saeed, highly appreciated Dr. Muqarrab Ali for achieving this project and reiterated that carbon sequestration plants have always been at the forefront of the university’s vision. Environmental changes are a clear reality, and we must prepare ourselves to face them. The ceremony was attended by Dr. Alamgir Akhtar Dr. Kashif Razzaq Chairman Department of Horticulture, Dr. Ammar Matloob, Dr. Baqir Hussain, Dr. Muqarrab Ali, Dr. Gulzar Akhtar Dr. Asad Malik, Abid Raza Deputy Director Farm, Dr. Waseem Hassan, Dr. Muhammad Usman and others.
World Forest Day Celebrated at MNSUAM with Awareness Activities and Plantation Drive
An event was organized at Muhammad Nawaz Shareef University of Agriculture, Multan, on March 21, 2025, to observe World Forest Day. It was held in collaboration with the Plant for Life Society, Green Youth Movement Club, Department of Forestry, Department of Environmental Sciences, and
Department of Climate Change. Students, faculty members, and guests actively participated in seminars and poster competitions organized on this occasion. The chief guest, Additional Chief Secretary of Punjab, Mr. Fawad Hashim Rabbani, highlighted the importance of forests and environmental conservation. He said, “Trees are a gift of nature that play an important role in keeping our environment green,” and appreciated the efforts of university, while encouraging youth to take part in tree plantation.
Prof. Dr. Ishtiaq Ahmad Rajwana, Vice Chancellor MNSUAM, stated, “It is the mission of the university to take practical steps for environmental protection. The aim of this event is not only to spread awareness but also to create in future generations a sense of responsibility and love for trees.” Dr. Muqarrab Ali, in-charge of the Plant for Life Society, appreciated the students’ creativity displayed in the poster competition and shared the program’s objectives. An Environmental Awareness Walk was also held from the Academic Block to the Miyawaki Garden, where participants raised awareness through banners and slogans. As part of the Urban Forest project, 2,300 saplings were planted, including useful tree species such as olive, mango, and neem. The poster competition featured innovative ideas by students on forest conservation and climate change solutions. The event concluded with a prayer for environmental protection, led by Prof. Dr. Rajwana. Other important guests included Syed Wajid Ali Shah, Syed Asad Ali (Chief Conservator), Dr. Kashif Razaq (Chairman, Department of Horticulture), Mr. Arshad Bhatti, Dr. Muqarrab Ali, and Mr. Junaid Khokhar.
Training Workshop on pesticide Stewardship for Safe and Responsible Use
A training workshop titled “Pesticide Stewardship” was organized in collaboration with the Institute of Plant Protection, at MNSUAM and Syngenta Pakistan on March 20, 2025. The main objective of the workshop was to promote safe and responsible use of pesticides in agriculture, environmental protection, and sustainable farming practices. Renowned agricultural experts and scientists participated in the workshop, including prominent Prof. Dr. Shafqat Saeed (Dean, Faculty of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences), Prof. Dr. Junaid Ali Khan (Director, Office of Research, Innovation and Commercialization), Mr. Mohsin Raza (Technical Marketing and Development Manager, South Zone, Syngenta Pakistan), Ms. Nimra Khan (Assistant Manager Stewardship, Syngenta Pakistan),Dr. Abid Hussain (Manager Industrial Linkages), Dr. Asif Farooq (Assistant Professor, Department of Entomology).
The workshop educated participants on the safe use of pesticides, their impact on the environment, and the latest technologies. Through practical exercises, case studies, and question-and-answer sessions, participants learned best practices in the use of pesticides. Detailed lectures were presented on the safe disposal of agricultural pesticides, farmer training, and government policies.
Prof. Dr. Shafqat Saeed emphasized that “Pesticide stewardship is not only a means of protecting crops, but it is also indispensable for human health and ecological balance. We need to equip farmers with the latest knowledge.” Mr. Mohsin Raza, while clarifying the vision of Syngenta Pakistan, expressed that “We are committed to providing innovative solutions for sustainable agriculture and highlighting the capabilities of farmers.” Students of Agronomy, Entomology, Plant Pathology, and Horticulture termed the workshop as “the best combination of knowledge and practical experience”. The participants found the sessions related to research and industrial experiments of this workshop very useful. At the end of the workshop, certificates were distributed among the participants. Prof. Dr. Junaid Ali Khan thanked Syngenta Pakistan and all the speakers and expressed his commitment for more such joint efforts in the future.
Seminar on Impact of Alien Plant and Insect Species on Pakistan’s Agriculture and Trade
The Graduate Resource Centre at Muhammad Nawaz Shareef University of Agriculture, Multan, organized a seminar on the impact of alien plant and insect species on Pakistan’s agriculture and trade on March 13, 2025. The keynote speaker, Dr. Unsar Naeem Ullah, highlighted the significant challenges posed by these invasive species to Pakistan’s ecosystem and agricultural sector. Dr. Unsar emphasized that alien species are not only affecting local biodiversity but also reducing crop yields and impacting international trade. He stressed the need for modern research, robust monitoring systems, and public awareness campaigns to prevent the spread of these species.
e foregrounded that collaboration between government agencies, farmers, and research institutions is essential to address this issue. Dr. Shoaib-ur Rehman, the seminar organizer, appreciated Dr. Unsar’s insightful discussion and emphasized the commitment of MNSUAM to promote scientific research to address such challenges. He urged the participants to work together to mitigate the risks facing the agricultural economy. The seminar was attended by faculty members, students, researchers, and representatives from the agricultural sector. The participants engaged in a fruitful discussion, raising questions and exploring future collaborative efforts.
Farmer Field Day on Effective Use of Saline Water in Vegetable Cultivation
The Department of Soil and Environmental Sciences, MNSUAM organized a Farmer Field Day on the topic “Effective Use of Saline Water for Vegetable Cultivation” on March 2, 2025. The event was held under the project PARB 20-70, “Technology-enabled food self-sufficiency, climate change adaptation, and outreach to stakeholders in the context of salt-affected agriculture,” funded by the Punjab Agricultural Research Board.
The event brought together diverse stakeholders, including government officials, agricultural experts, researchers, farmers, and agricultural input providers. Professor Dr. Tanveer-ul-Haq, Chairman of the Department of Soil and Environmental Sciences, delivered a comprehensive overview and thanked the organizers and participants. The discussion focused on the challenges of soil salinity and the effective use of saline water for irrigation. The talk highlighted the various Salinity Issues in Pakistan like unplanned irrigation practices and lack of drainage have contributed to soil salinity, seepage from canals and water distribution networks, as well as excessive use of saline water for irrigation, have also increased salinity levels and high Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) in irrigation water have led to soil salinity, as the salts remain in the soil after evaporation.
The session facilitated the attendees with numerous strategies for Managing Salinity like two approaches can be adopted to manage salinity: removing salts from the soil or growing crops that can tolerate salinity. The project has been working on researching and developing strategies for effective use of saline water for irrigation. Dr. Wazir Ahmed emphasized that using saline water for agriculture can be an opportunity for farmers, landowners, and the government. If managed properly, it can become a viable means of crop production, especially in areas with limited access to fresh water. The event included a technical review of using saline water for irrigation, its impact on soil health and crops, and potential remedial measures. Participants visited the project site and were distributed packets of vegetable seeds. The event concluded with the distribution of summer vegetable seeds to farmers. The event was attended by Dr. Abdul Ghaffar, Director Farms, Mr. Asif Nawaz, Additional Treasurer, Dr. Alamgir, Mr. Muhammad Kashif, Assistant Director Extension, Dr. Usman Jamshaid, Agriculture Officer and over 70 farmers, along with students.
Ambassador of Argentina Visits MNSUAM
MNSUAM welcomed H.E. Sebastián Sayús, Ambassador of Argentina to Pakistan, and Mrs. Erica Lucero, Deputy Head of Mission, on February 17, 2025. The visit, facilitated by ORIC, focused on exploring joint initiatives in precision agriculture, livestock, agro-biotechnology, water management, student exchange, and sports development.
The delegation appreciated MNSUAM’s research progress, including its ongoing collaboration with Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria (INTA), Argentina. Ambassador Sayús reaffirmed Argentina’s commitment to strengthening academic and scientific ties with Pakistan. The visit marked a significant step in enhancing bilateral cooperation in agriculture, technology, and education. The guests also planted trees to commemorate the occasion.
Eddy Covariance Flex Tower Inaugurated at MNSUAM Jalalpur Pirwala Campus
The MNS University of Agriculture, Multan, inaugurated the Eddy Covariance Flex Tower at its Jalalpur Pirwala campus, marking a significant step in climate change research and sustainable agriculture. The inauguration was led by Prof. Dr. Ishtiaq Ahmad Rajwana, Vice Chancellor, along with deans, directors, faculty members, and administration staff.
Dr. Muhammad Saifullah briefed the participants on the tower’s role in measuring carbon flux, evapotranspiration, and other environmental parameters critical for climate-smart agriculture. The project, funded by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) under the Green Climate Fund (GCF), aims to improve water resource management and strengthen resilience to climate change. The efforts of Dr. Saifullah and his team were widely appreciated, reaffirming MNSUAM’s commitment to advancing agricultural innovation and sustainability.
Seminar on “The Role of Ornamental Plants in Mitigating Soil Heavy Metal Pollution”
On October 10, 2024, MNS-University of Agriculture, Multan, organized a one-day seminar titled “The Role of Ornamental Plants in Mitigating Soil Heavy Metal Pollution” under the HEC-funded NRPU Project No. 16813. The seminar emphasized the potential of ornamental plants in reducing heavy metal contamination in soils, thereby supporting environmental sustainability and enhancing economic opportunities for farmers.
The event began with the recitation of the Holy Quran, followed by a welcome address from Dr. Kashif Razzaq (Chairman, Department of Horticulture), who shared the objectives of the project and explained how ornamental plants contribute to both environmental remediation and farmer income generation.
Mr. Tahir Saeed (Deputy Director of Floriculture) highlighted the role of ornamental plants in the floriculture industry, stressing their dual benefits in pollution control and economic growth. Dr. Muhammad Baqir Hussain (Associate Professor, Soil and Environmental Sciences) introduced participants to phytoremediation techniques, showcasing how specific ornamental species can absorb heavy metals effectively.
The seminar concluded with Dr. Gulzar Akhtar (Principal Investigator, NRPU Project 16813), who presented research findings demonstrating significant reductions in soil heavy metals within 6–12 months of remediation. These results pave the way for cultivating safe crops in previously contaminated soils. The seminar successfully showcased ornamental plants as sustainable tools for tackling environmental pollution while simultaneously strengthening the livelihoods of horticulture farmers.
Round Table Conference on “Rhodes Grass Fine Cut Cultivation” at MNSUAM
On September 19, 2024, Maxim Agri (Pvt.) Limited, in collaboration with MNS-University of Agriculture, Multan, organized a one-day Round Table Conference on Rhodes Grass Fine Cut Cultivation. The event aimed to promote the adoption of Rhodes grass on salt-affected and desert soils of Pakistan as a sustainable fodder solution.
The keynote lecture was delivered by Mr. Brett Richard (General Manager, Selected Seeds Australia), who shared modern approaches for improving the quality and production of Rhodes grass. The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Dr. Ishtiaq A. Rajwana, emphasized the university’s role in agricultural innovation and soil rehabilitation. Mr. Faisal Fareed (CEO, Maxim Agri) welcomed participants and highlighted the importance of Rhodes grass in livestock feeding and fodder exports.
Key discussions included export quality parameters (Mr. Zahid Aziz), success stories from desert cultivation (Mr. Abdul Hafeez, Dayzee Farms), and export challenges in Gulf markets (Mr. Rao Mansoor). The open-floor session allowed farmers, researchers, and industry stakeholders to deliberate on opportunities and barriers in scaling Rhodes grass production. The event concluded with acknowledgment of the collaborative role of academia, industry, and farmers in promoting climate-resilient fodder systems.
MNSUAM and SNGPL Sign Agreement of Cooperation
On August 29, 2024, Muhammad Nawaz Shareef University of Agriculture, Multan (MNSUAM) and Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Ltd. (SNGPL) signed an Agreement of Cooperation to jointly launch a landmark Carbon Offsetting Plantation Project at the university. Under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, SNGPL will provide PKR 4 million in funding support.
The project, led by Dr. Muqarrab Ali, Associate Professor, Department of Climate Change, aims to restore natural ecosystems and promote carbon sequestration through large-scale plantation efforts. Alongside environmental benefits, the agreement includes 4–6-week internships for MNSUAM students in SNGPL’s Health, Safety, and Environment Department, bridging academic learning with professional exposure. The partnership was formalized by Prof. Dr. Ishtiaq A. Rajwana, Vice Chancellor MNSUAM, and the Managing Director of SNGPL, reflecting a shared commitment to climate action, environmental sustainability, and strong industry–academia collaboration.