News DeskTandojam, Sindh: The Institute of Food Sciences and Technology (IFST) at Sindh Agriculture University, Tandojam, hosted a seminar on World Food Day to raise awareness about hunger, malnutrition, and food insecurity in Pakistan. The event emphasized the importance of sustainable agriculture, small-scale farming, and the urgent need for cooperative efforts to achieve global food security.
The seminar was inaugurated by Dr. Inayatullah Rajpar, Dean of the Faculty of Crop Production, who highlighted Pakistan’s alarming food insecurity, with over 37% of the population affected. Dr. Rajpar attributed the worsening crisis to rapid population growth, climate change, and water scarcity, and called for more sustainable agricultural practices to combat the growing challenges.
Dr. Aijaz Ali Khooharo, Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, addressed the region’s unique challenges, particularly in Sindh, where poverty, malnutrition, and limited access to food are widespread. He expressed serious concern for the Thar region, where stunted growth and micronutrient deficiencies are prevalent among children. Dr. Khooharo emphasized the need to boost crop yields and reduce food waste to improve food security in the region.
The Director of IFST, Dr. Aijaz Hussain Soomro, discussed the institute’s ongoing collaborations with international organizations and local communities aimed at promoting resilient agricultural practices, reducing food loss, and ensuring access to nutritious food. He urged collective action to achieve the goal of global food security.
Several prominent figures, including Dr. Muhammad Ismail Kumbhar, Director of UA&FA, and Dr. Ashfaque Ahmed Nahiyon, Provincial Coordinator of FAO Sindh, participated in the event. Faculty members such as Dr. Allah Wadhayo Gandahi, Dr. Aasia Akber Panhwar, Dr. Muhammad Bachal Bhutto, Dr. Shahnawaz Marri, Dr. Tahseen Fatima Miano, Dr. Shehzor Gul Khaskheli, and Dr. Asadullah Mari played key roles in organizing the seminar and delivering insightful speeches.
The event concluded with an awareness Walk, reaffirming the university’s commitment to advancing food security and promoting sustainable agriculture in Pakistan.
