News DeskTando Jam, Sindh – The Sindh Agriculture University (SAU) has successfully secured over Rs100 million in funding from the Export Development Fund (EDF) to establish a Mango Disease Diagnostic and Research Centre, a Clean Mango Nursery, and a Mango Drying Unit. These initiatives aim to boost Pakistan’s mango exports by improving quality standards and adding value to the fruit.
The funding was awarded to three faculty members of SAU under EDF-backed projects. Dr. Muhammad Ibrahim Khaskheli from the Department of Plant Pathology received funding for the Disease Diagnostic and Research Centre, while Dr. Aasia Akbar Panhwar from the Institute of Food Sciences and Technology secured funds for the Mango Drying Unit. Dr. Noor-un-Nisa Memon from the Department of Horticulture was granted funding for the Clean Mango Nursery.
To mark this milestone, SAU organized an awareness seminar titled “Role of Export Development Fund (EDF) and SAU Collaborative Projects” at the University Senate Hall. Speaking at the event, SAU Vice Chancellor Dr. Altaf Ali Siyal emphasized the investment potential in the agricultural sector. He called for stronger collaboration between academia, industry, and funding institutions to enhance agricultural exports and value-added products.
“With EDF’s support, SAU is introducing innovative solutions for mango quality improvement, disease control, and value addition. These initiatives will not only strengthen Pakistan’s position in global markets but also create new economic opportunities for farmers and agro-businesses,” Dr. Siyal stated.
EDF Deputy Director Abdul Qayoom, who also spoke at the seminar, highlighted the limited allocation of EDF funds to agriculture, noting that only 2% of the total funds have been directed toward the sector. He emphasized the need for greater investment in agriculture to unlock its export potential.
Qayoom revealed that EDF has established 27 centers across the country to train skilled professionals, equipping the industry with specialized manpower. He also cited the example of chili exports, pointing out that China imports chili worth $7 billion annually. Despite Sindh being home to Asia’s largest chili market, Pakistan has been unable to tap into this lucrative market due to excessive Aflatoxin contamination.
The newly funded projects at SAU are expected to address similar challenges in the mango industry, paving the way for increased exports and economic growth. By focusing on disease control, quality improvement, and value addition, SAU aims to position Pakistan as a competitive player in the global mango market.
The initiatives are also anticipated to benefit local farmers and agro-businesses, creating new opportunities for income generation and sustainable development in the agricultural sector.
