Rahim Yar Khan
The Institute of Food Science and Technology at Khwaja Fareed University of Engineering and Technology (KFUEIT) organized a multi-stakeholder workshop titled “Bio-Fortified Zinc Wheat to Combat Malnutrition.” The event was hosted in collaboration with the Association for Gender Awareness and Human Empowerment (AGAHE) and the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN).
Prof. Dr. Shahzad Murtaza, Pro-Vice Chancellor of KFUEIT, graced the workshop as the chief guest. Representatives from farmer organizations, district administration, and private sector experts also participated, including Mr. Ahmed Khakwani, Area Manager, Engro Fertilizer, Pakistan, Dr. Khan Aslam Khan (Director Agriculture Extension), Dr. Iqrar (Director, In-Service Agriculture Institute), Dr. Abdul Jaleel Jarwar (Director, FFC Farm Advisory), and Arsalan Akhtar (Project Manager, AGAHE). Over 50 farmers attended the event, along with faculty, students, and industry stakeholders.
Dr. Farhan Chughtai, Director of the Institute of Food Science and Technology, welcomed the guests and emphasized the importance of zinc-enriched wheat in addressing malnutrition. Other faculty members, including Dr. Adnan Khaliq, Dr. Mian Tariq Mahmood, Dr. Atif Liaqat, Dr. Adil Farooq, and Dr. Samreen, also participated and shared insights on nutrition and sustainable agriculture.
In his remarks, Prof. Dr. Shahzad Murtaza praised the collaborative efforts of the university and partner organizations, stating, “Workshops like these are pivotal in promoting research-based solutions to critical issues such as malnutrition. We are committed to creating awareness and empowering our farming community with knowledge and innovation.”
Dr. Khan Aslam Khan added, “Bio-fortification of crops with essential micronutrients like zinc is a crucial step towards ensuring food security and improving public health.”
The participants appreciated the workshop’s arrangements and expressed optimism about adopting innovative agricultural practices to address malnutrition challenges.
