A 5-members delegation of USAID Pakistan headed by Timothy K. Ekin, Team leader Pakistan Food and Agriculture, Systems Study visited University of Agriculture, Faisalabad (UAF) on Wednesday. The purpose of the visit to obtain maximum information regarding various components of agriculture sector like education, research and extension.
Professor Iqrar Ahmad Khan, Vice Chancellor UAF, Timothy said that Pakistan was blessed with natural resources and suitable climatic situation in order to exploit its maximum yield potential which could not be achieved so far. He also said that USA was extending its long lasting mutual co-operation for the development of infrastructure and economic growth in Pakistan.
He lauded the role of University of Agriculture, Faisalabad in human resource development activities and stressed the need for demand oriented research activities in collaboration with corporate and private sectors. Professor Iqrar Ahmad Khan, Vice Chancellor UAF told the American delegation that UAF had been contributing in the shape of research and development since its inception.
He maintained that more than 1500 PhD, M Phil and M Sc (Hons) level research thesis were produced annually having lot of innovative material which could be developed as new technology by utilising resources. Dr Iqrar also said that UAF was trying to set up technology park at the Campus in order to attract the industrialists and other stake-holders for the development of agricultural sectors.
Other members of US delegation Farrukh Baig Mirza, Expert Pakistan Food and Agriculture, System Study, Aazar W. Bhandara Economic Growth Advisor, Nasar Hayat Project Management Specialist and Syed A. Husaini Jageerdar, Development economist also spoke on the occasion.