rki.news | Sources Muhammad Nawaz Sharif University of Agriculture Multan
MULTAN, Sept. 22
MULTAN: Vice Chancellor of Muhammad Nawaz Sharif University of Agriculture Multan, Professor Dr. Asif Ali (Tamgha-e-Imtiaz), has proposed a comprehensive partnership with the Multan Chamber of Commerce & Industry (MCCI) to transform research, innovation and human resources in South Punjab into practical business opportunities.
During a meeting with representatives of the Chamber, various aspects of strengthening university-industry linkages, aligning research with industrial needs and playing a joint role in the region’s economic development were discussed.
Under the proposed partnership, the concept of “From Knowledge to Business” would be translated into practical initiatives through the formation of a joint coordination committee and thematic working groups. The collaboration would focus on research in climate-smart agriculture, efficient water utilization, agricultural mechanization, digital agriculture, biological agricultural products, technology transfer and solutions to practical industrial problems.
Priority would also be given to value addition, food processing, packaging, food safety, cold-chain development and export potential in key agricultural sectors, including mangoes, citrus, dates and dairy. Proposals for creating entrepreneurial opportunities for youth and women were also discussed.
Participants emphasized that university-industry relations should move beyond traditional linkages toward a problem-solving and market-oriented system, enabling research to be translated into products, technologies, startups and sustainable businesses.
For this purpose, the selection of three to five pilot projects and preparation of a 12-month joint action plan were proposed.
Additional Chief Secretary Punjab Iftikhar Ali Sahu participated online and stated that such pilot projects between the Agricultural University Multan and the Chamber of Commerce & Industry would further contribute to the development of agriculture in South Punjab.
Dr. Shafique Patafi, Asif Majeed and other representatives of the Chamber also participated in the meeting.
