The horticulture research laboratory will serve as a focal point for joint research projects between HZAU and UAF as well as academic exchange programmes for faculty and students.
Huazhong Agricultural University (HZAU), China, and University of Agriculture, Faisalabad (UAF), Pakistan, collaborated on the International Joint Laboratory on Horticulture Research, and the signing ceremony was held at HZAU.
The joint laboratory will concentrate on horticultural research with a focus on enhancing crop productivity, creating new varieties, and promoting sustainable agricultural practises, according to media.
The horticulture research laboratory will serve as a focal point for joint research projects between HZAU and UAF as well as academic exchange programmes for faculty and students.
The joint laboratory’s main objective is to apply modern agricultural methods, equipment, and management techniques. This includes novel research initiatives in the horticultural crop production process, such as advancements in fruit, vegetable, flower, and ornamental plant germplasm, culture, and post-harvest technology.
The collaborative lab promotes the development of original programmes and/or internships that allow students and/or faculty members to gain practical experience in their chosen fields. Additionally, it promotes the peer-reviewed journal publication of joint research findings.
It is noteworthy that more than 60 scientific articles by Pakistani students from the College of Horticulture and Forestry Sciences at HZAU have been published in international SCI journals over the course of the last ten years. Collaboration in scientific research, talent development, and cultivation between HAZU and UAF has a long history.
More than 50 UAF alumni are either enrolled in classes at the College of Horticulture and Forestry Sciences, HZAU, or have already graduated from the programme.
The China-Pakistan Horticulture Research and Demonstration Centre was jointly established by the two universities last year, fostering knowledge exchange in the horticulture sector and strengthening their collaboration.
The ceremony was attended by Dr. Iqrar Ahmad Khan, vice chancellor of UAF, and Dr. Li Zhaohu, president of HZAU. Future partnerships between the two sides included joint research on food security in the face of climate change, mechanisation for small landowners, demonstrations of Chinese technology at UAF, etc.