Dr. Hakan Ozkan of Cukurova University, Turkey visited the University of Agriculture, Faisalabad

FAISALABAD April 27: Dr. Hakan Ozkan of Cukurova University, Turkey visited the University of Agriculture, Faisalabad and met scientists from the Wheat Group of the Plant Breeding and Genetics Department UAF. Dr. Muhammad Kashif, Dr. Rizwana Maqbool, Dr. Aamir Shakeel, Dr. Raheela Rehman, Dr. Amara and others attended the . The meeting discussed varieties of wheat and solutions to the problems faced by this crop. They meeting expressed their views to promote relations between the two universities. Dr. Hakan Ozkan said that in his wheat breeding program, they were employing traditional and modern methods, including molecular DNA markers and speed breeding, in collaboration with private seed companies. It was discussed that it is imperative to ensure an increase in the per acre yield of wheat so that the needs of the growing population can be met in an efficient manner. It is worth mentioning here that the Punjab Seed Council has approved a new wheat line “Chenab Pasta 24” developed by the UAF Vice Chancellor Faisalabad, Professor Dr. Zulfiqar Ali that is a hallmark achievement Moreover, UAF, in collaboration with Washington State University is developing climate resilient lines of wheat that will increase the production. In addition , hybrid wheat lines are being developed for the first time in Pakistan in collaboration with University of Agriculture; University of Agriculture Multan and Australia. He also met Director CAS Dr Sultan Habib, Dr Tehseen and others. They also visited the wheat field.