rki.news
Muhammad Nawaz Sharif University of Agriculture, Multan

April 09, 2026: A consultative workshop on “Private Sector Research Partnership: Agri-Business Reference Group” was organized at Avari Hotel Lahore in collaboration with Muhammad Nawaz Sharif University of Agriculture Multan, University of Agriculture Faisalabad, and ACIAR.
Prof. Dr. Asif Ali (T.I.), Vice Chancellor of MNSUAM, commended the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) for its contributions to the development of Pakistan’s agricultural sector. He emphasized the importance of strong research–private sector linkages, highlighting the need to promote innovation, entrepreneurship, and collaborative approaches in agriculture.
Prof. Dr. Zulfiqar Ali, VC of UAF, affirmed the University of Agriculture Faisalabad’s commitment to support and enhance the group, emphasizing the significance of joint strategies to increase farmers’ income and ensure sustainable development.
Dr. Munawar Kazmi, Country Manager ACIAR, noted that the Agri-Business Reference Group serves as a valuable platform connecting private companies, farmers, and service providers. Prof. Dr. Uzma Qureshi (VC, LCWU Lahore) and Engr. Prof. Dr. Altaf Ali Siyal (VC, Sindh Agriculture University) also praised the initiative.
Representatives from seed companies, farmers, exporters, and financial institutions actively participated in the workshop. Prof. Dr. Irfan Ahmed Baig, Prof. Dr. Mubashar Mehdi, Dr. Burhan Ahmed, Dr. Amjad Iqbal, Dr. Haseeb Raza, and Dr. Qamar Shakeel were among the participants, highlighting the forum’s crucial role in strengthening and enhancing the profitability and sustainability of Pakistan’s agricultural sector.