An International Centre for Agricultural Trade would be set up at University of Agriculture Faisalabad

An International Centre for Agricultural Trade would be set up at University of Agriculture Faisalabad with the support of Sustainable Development Policy Institute and Canadian High Commission in Islamabad. The assertion was made by UAF VC Prof. Dr. Iqrar Ahmad Khan while presiding over the meeting of Deans Committee here at New Syndicate Hall on Tuesday afternoon. Dr. Khan expressed satisfaction over the work so far done by various faculties to launch six new degree programs from the next academic session. He said UAF vow to get the statutory approval during the forthcoming meeting of Academic Council on June 24, 2013, to formally offer Seed Science, Bio-Informatics, Software Engineering and D-Pharmacy programs to the students. He said UAF administration intends to obtain the insurance policy for its employees as earliest, and due non-existence of pension fund, the varsity has to face pension liabilities worth 400 million. “We want to build swimming pool, cricket, hockey and basketball court at each of its sub campuses thereby to revamp its sports activities so that the varsity may regain its old glory in the sports” he added. Giving details of the proposed International Centre for Agricultural Trade at campus, he said the Canadian High Commission and University of Agriculture Faisalabad were closely working to facilitate a discussion on the need for research and analysis on the benefit of trade for Pakistan’s Agricultural sector with India and the world. Dr. Khan revealed that last week, a roundtable discussion was hosted by His Excellency Greg Giokas to explore business opportunities. The Canadian High Commissioner, he said, was of the view that his country was interested in encouraging a discussion on a market opening with India and the rest of the world, as it will provide greater stability and much needed prosperity to Pakistan and the region as Pakistan has many comparative advantages, a good infrastructure and growing workforce and the agriculture sector is a particular strength.