Independence Day Celebrations at UAF

Like other parts of the country, Independence Day on Thursday was marked at the University of Agriculture Faisalabad with traditional zeal and enthusiasm. Special programmes were arranged to pay homage to the sacrifices of freedom fighters and perk up the spirit of devotion and dedication towards progress. The day began with the special prayers for the progress of the country at Jamia Masjid, UAF at 8:00 am. The flag hoisting ceremony was administrated by UAF Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Iqrar Ahmad Khan at Iqbal Auditorium. Addressing on the occasion, the Vice Chancellor said the day reminds us great sacrifices under unprecedented freedom movement led by Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah that culminated in emergence of an independent Muslim state on the map of the world. It is, now, our duty to work dedicatedly for the progress of our homeland. He was of the view that message of Allama Iqbal and Quaid-Azam must be spread among the people in order to make prosperity in every field of life. He called for becoming good citizen and good workers. The education is the imperative for the uplift of the country, he said, adding that we have to promote the education in every corner of Pakistan. He said that the UAF recommendations in preparation of Government Vision 2025 of Planning Commission were praised. He said that in the last year, 116 faculty members had been inducted whereas 179 supporting staff were regularized or promoted. He said that for the first time in its history, the UAF has developed a comprehensive action plan for the next fifteen years to achieve a sustainable agriculture UAF Vision 2030 through its three cornerstones: learning, discovery and outreach. As many as 18,000 students will be studying this year whereas the enrollments will touch to 30,000 students by 2030. He said that 12 students of UAF run schools were sent to Turkey under the student exchange programmes whereas 14 students of Engineering Faculty will fly for Malaysia soon. He said that the more than 50 new degree programmes has been added in the recent years. It is offering 160 degree programmes in line with the international trends and needs. He said that country was lagging behind in the modern agricultural practices. Thus it is important to increase productivity to ensure the food security for the increasing population. He said that country was importing edible oil, cereals, milk powder, tea, wheat etc that are areas of concern. Principal Officer, Public Relations and Publications, Prof Dr Jalal Arif urged the students and staff to turn all stones to cope with the challenges of our homeland. He said food security is the major challenge in the field of agriculture. He said that the UAF has been opening up new chapters of glory to ensure food especially for the last six years. The students of UAF run Laboratory School System and Day Care Centre presented the mili nagmas and skits before the audience, depicting the color of love for the country and giving the message of peace with the promotion of tolerance among the society.