Experts at a conference organised by The Islamia University of Bahawalpur (IUB) have called for stronger cooperation between the government, universities and private businesses to address agricultural challenges and improve food security in Pakistan.
The one-day conference, titled “Role of Public and Private Sector in Agriculture and Food Security,” was organised by IUB’s Faculty of Agriculture and Environment in collaboration with the Pakistan Crop Protection Association, the Young Peace and Development Corps, and the Ministry of Planning, Development and Special Initiatives.
The event brought together university leaders, government officials, agricultural experts, researchers, private-sector representatives, farmers and students to discuss practical solutions for sustainable agricultural development.
Climate Change and Water Scarcity Threaten Food Security
Speakers identified rapid population growth, climate change, water shortages, declining soil fertility and rising production costs as major challenges affecting agricultural productivity and national food security.
They stressed that coordinated action by government institutions, academic organisations and private businesses is essential to overcome these challenges and build a more resilient agricultural sector.
Additional Director General Riaz Kulachi highlighted the importance of responsible pesticide use, effective pest monitoring and strict quality control. He said proper crop protection practices can improve yields while safeguarding human health, protecting the environment and supporting the competitiveness of Pakistan’s agricultural exports.
Universities Urged to Deliver Practical Solutions
IUB Vice Chancellor Professor Dr Muhammad Kamran reaffirmed the university’s commitment to applied research and stronger collaboration with government departments and industry.
He emphasised that research findings should be translated into practical solutions that help farmers increase productivity and respond to emerging agricultural challenges.
Professor Dr Shazia Anjum, Vice Chancellor of Government Sadiq College Women University Bahawalpur, highlighted the important contribution of women to agricultural labour and household food management. She also called for greater involvement of students and young researchers in agricultural innovation.
Climate-Smart Farming and Modern Technology
Professor Dr Tanveer Hussain Turabi, Dean of IUB’s Faculty of Agriculture and Environment, discussed modern farming methods, climate-smart agriculture and sustainable management of natural resources.
Dr Muhammad Asif Khan, Director of the university’s Directorate of Industrial Linkages, said structured partnerships between public institutions and private enterprises could accelerate technology transfer, develop agricultural skills, promote value addition and improve market access for farm products.
Participants also highlighted the potential of precision agriculture, drone-based crop monitoring and other modern technologies to improve resource efficiency and increase agricultural productivity.
Collaboration Seen as Key to Sustainable Agriculture
The conference concluded with a call for coordinated policymaking, increased investment in agricultural research and stronger public-private partnerships to support sustainable agricultural growth.
Participants emphasised that closer cooperation between universities, government agencies, businesses and farming communities will be essential to improving agricultural performance and securing Pakistan’s long-term food supply.
The event reaffirmed IUB’s commitment to strengthening research, innovation and industry collaboration to address the challenges facing farmers and the wider agricultural sector.
