Experts stress need for investment in agricultural research.

KARACHI -- As many as 25 researchers from various universities participated in the two-day seminar-cum workshop held at Karachi University on Tuesday.

Experts from Pakistan Agriculture Research Islamabad, PMAS, Arid Agriculture University, Rawalpindi, Sindh Agriculture University Tandojam, University of Poonch, Rawalakot, AJK, Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Department of Agriculture LUAWMS, Balochistan, Department of Agriculture, Abdul Wali Khan University, Mardan, Wheat Research Sub-Station Murree, Department of Plant Protection, Uthal University took part in the event.

The National Nematological Research Centre (NNRC), KU in collaboration with the Pakistan Society of Nematologists (PSN) and Pakistan Science Foundation (PSF) organised the 15th scientific workshop, titled 'significance of nematode identification for better management'.

During the inaugural session, the experts underscored the need for investment in agricultural research, to help in strengthening Pakistan's agricultural sector and economy. They informed the audience that the identification of nematodes is very important. They also briefed them on how this information could be helpful for farmers to protect their crops.

KU Vice Chancellor Professor Dr Khalid Mahmood Iraqi inaugurated the session and expressed that the varsity was working extraordinarily for the promotion of research culture in the country. He informed the audience that since its establishment, the KU has been working for the promotion of science and research in Pakistan.

Professor Iraqi observed: 'We have to adopt modern technologies and techniques to boost our agricultural growth.'

During his speech, he acknowledged Professor Dr Shahina Fayyaz services and said one lab of the center would be named after her.

The President of the ECO Science Foundation Professor Dr Manzoor Hussain Soomro shared the working and services of the center. Dr Soomro, who is also the President of the PSN, said that the promotion of improved methods in the teaching of science was one of the prime initiatives of the ECO foundation.

He mentioned that the ECO focuses on the evaluation of the existing training facilities in the region and the formulation of training programs for building up highly skilled scientific and technical manpower.

He maintained that the foundation also designed programs to strengthen the scientific, engineering and research and development institutions. He added that the ECO Science Foundation is working in...