Food and Agriculture Organisation team offers more cooperation to farming community in Sindh

A delegation from the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) paid a visit to Sindh Agriculture University (SAU) Tandojam to explore possibilities for deeper cooperation in various areas, including education, research, student internships, and capacity building. The FAO team, led by Officer-in-Charge James Robert Okoth, held discussions with SAU Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Altaf Ali Siyal and several FAO representatives, including Maria Usman, Pedro Grazon, and Dr Ashfaque Ahmed Nahiyoon.

The VC of SAU expressed gratitude for FAO Pakistan's ongoing support to the agriculture sector, acknowledging that Sindh is one of the regions grappling with significant challenges posed by changing climatic conditions. He emphasized that agricultural experts and institutions must provide practical assistance to farmers as they grapple with the impacts of climate change on agriculture, water availability, and livelihoods.

Dr Siyal highlighted the importance of bridging the gap between agricultural education and research with real-world field experience, enabling graduates to contribute meaningfully to addressing climate change, food security, modern agricultural technologies, and sustainable farming practices. The FAO delegation, appreciative of their previous successful collaborations with SAU, expressed interest in expanding joint initiatives in the future.

James Okoth stressed the need for increased involvement of SAU students and agricultural experts in projects aimed at assisting Sindh's farming communities in adapting to climate-related challenges. He also mentioned the FAO's intention to collaborate closely with local communities and institutions, particularly the disadvantaged areas of Sindh, to promote sustainable agricultural practices.

The meeting concluded with a reaffirmed commitment from both institutions to enhance cooperation, strengthen institutional linkages, and create practical opportunities for students and faculty, with the ultimate goal of supporting farmers and fostering sustainable agricultural development in Sindh.