RAWALPINDI — February 4, 2026
PMAS-Arid Agriculture University Rawalpindi held an international workshop on olive nutrition and sustainable food systems, bringing together academics, researchers, farmers, and agriculture professionals to discuss the growing importance of olive cultivation in Pakistan.
The workshop, titled “Olive: Health Utility, Nutrition Value & Sustainable Food Systems,” was organized by the Department of Horticulture, Faculty of Agriculture, in collaboration with the Olive Culture Scale-Up initiative. Speakers focused on the nutritional benefits of olives, quality standards of olive oil, and the crop’s potential contribution to climate-resilient agriculture.
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Vice Chancellor Qamar-uz-Zaman attended the event as chief guest and said Pakistan has significant untapped potential for olive farming. He emphasized the need for scientific research, farmer training, and adoption of modern cultivation and processing techniques to improve productivity, increase farmers’ income, and support national food security goals.
International and local expertise shared
International agriculture expert Francesco De Musso delivered a detailed presentation on the health and nutritional value of olives, highlighting olive oil’s role in balanced diets and its global recognition as a key component of healthy nutrition.
Muhammad Nouman, Head of Quality and Sensory Evaluation, spoke on olive oil quality assessment, outlining sensory evaluation methods used to distinguish high-grade olive oil from lower-quality products.
Another session on olive production and sustainable food systems was presented by Muhammad Arabi Awan, who discussed the role of olive cultivation in environmentally sustainable and climate-resilient agricultural practices.
Focus on awareness and future development
The workshop concluded with an interactive discussion session, followed by a vote of thanks by Muhammad Azam Khan. Participants also took part in a symbolic olive plantation activity to reinforce the importance of promoting olive cultivation at the grassroots level.
University officials said the event reflects PMAS-AAUR’s continued efforts to support research, awareness, and capacity building in the agriculture sector, particularly in areas linked to sustainable food systems and emerging high-value crops such as olives.
