UAF, Forestry Institute Sign Pact for Research Collaboration

Key Points:

The University of Agriculture Faisalabad and the Punjab Forestry Research Institute, Gatwala, have signed a collaborative agreement to strengthen forestry research.
The two institutions will work jointly on superior tree selection, germplasm collection and molecular characterisation of selected species.
Experts at a breast cancer awareness seminar and walk at the university stressed timely diagnosis, regular screening and prompt medical consultation.

FAISALABAD: The University of Agriculture Faisalabad (UAF) and the Punjab Forestry Research Institute (PFRI), Gatwala, have signed a collaborative agreement to strengthen forestry research, promote sustainable forest management and conserve biodiversity across the province.

The agreement aims to advance scientific research on selected tree species, improve the quality of forest genetic resources and promote non-timber forest products to support environmental conservation and sustainable development.

The agreement was signed by UAF Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Zulfiqar Ali and Chief Conservator of Forests, Central Zone, Lahore, Saqib Mehmood, at a ceremony attended by PFRI Director Dr Aqeela Mobeen Akhtar, UAF Director External Linkages Dr Iqrar Ahmad Rana, Director National Seed Center Dr Muhammad Tehseen Azhar, Chairman Department of Forestry Dr Fahad Rasheed, Dr Shahid Khalid from the Faculty of Forestry and Range Management (FFRM) and other officials.

Speaking on the occasion, Prof Dr Zulfiqar Ali said that strengthening forestry research was essential to addressing environmental challenges, conserving biodiversity and promoting sustainable management of natural resources. He emphasised the need for close collaboration between research institutions to develop scientific solutions for forest conservation, improve tree genetic resources and support climate-resilient forestry practices.

He said the partnership would provide opportunities to pool institutional expertise, enhance research capacity and translate scientific findings into practical measures for forestry development in Punjab.

The collaboration will be undertaken under the development scheme titled “Strengthening of Punjab Forestry Research Institute Faisalabad in line with Promotion of Non-Timber Forest Products.” Under the agreement, both institutions will work jointly on the identification and selection of superior trees, germplasm collection, documentation, preservation and molecular characterisation of selected species including Achellia nilotica (Kikar), Albizia lebbeck and Populus spp.

The partnership will also facilitate genetic-diversity analysis to help identify valuable tree varieties and strengthen the scientific basis for their conservation and future use. The two institutions will determine mutually agreed areas of collaboration and share research expertise to achieve common objectives in forestry development, biodiversity conservation and the sustainable utilisation of forest resources.

Breast Cancer Awareness Seminar and Walk Held at UAF

Dr Beenish Israr leading the breast cancer awareness walk at the University of Agriculture Faisalabad — walk

Lack of awareness and delays in seeking medical advice can hinder the timely diagnosis of breast cancer, highlighting the need for greater public awareness, regular screening and prompt medical consultation.

This was said by experts at a breast cancer awareness seminar and walk held at the University of Agriculture Faisalabad. The event was organised by the Pak-Korea Nutrition Center (PKNC) in collaboration with Pink Ribbon.

Director of the Institute of Home Sciences Dr Beenish Israr stressed the need to raise public awareness about breast cancer and promote preventive healthcare practices. She said women should be equipped with knowledge about breast self-examination, timely medical consultation and healthy living, adding that collective efforts were essential to improving health outcomes.

Consultant general and laparoscopic surgeon Dr Bushra Kashaf highlighted the importance of breast self-examination. She said timely diagnosis could improve treatment outcomes and increase the chances of recovery, urging women to seek medical advice if they noticed any unusual changes.

Consultant nutritionist at Mujahid Hospital Dr Ayesha Habib emphasised the role of a balanced diet and an active lifestyle in promoting overall health. She advised participants to consume nutritious foods, limit excessive sugar intake and incorporate regular exercise into their daily routines. Najma Shaheen also spoke on the occasion.