Engr. Prof. Dr. Altaf Ali Siyal, Vice Chancellor, Sindh Agriculture University, said during the GET Phase-II Skill Development Program at IQRA University, Hyderabad, on 11 September 2026, that such initiatives play a vital role in bridging the gap between academic learning and practical engineering experience. He appreciated the enthusiasm and commitment of the young engineers and emphasized the importance of five months of field training and interaction with senior professionals and industry experts in developing skilled and industry-ready engineers.

Engr. Prof. Dr. Altaf Ali Siyal, Vice Chancellor, Sindh Agriculture University, said during the GET Phase-II Skill Development Program at IQRA University, Hyderabad, on 11 September 2026, that such initiatives play a vital role in bridging the gap between academic learning and practical engineering experience. He appreciated the enthusiasm and commitment of the young engineers and emphasized the importance of five months of field training and interaction with senior professionals and industry experts in developing skilled and industry-ready engineers.

Vice Chancellor Engr. Prof. Dr. Altaf Ali Siyal congratulated three SAU women researchers for successfully completing the prestigious Meryl Williams Fellowship, describing it as an important achievement for research and international collaboration. The researchers Prof. Dr. Jameela Soomro, Dr. Mahmooda Buriro and Dr. Saima Kalsoom Babar received fellowship certificates from Australian High Commissioner Timothy Kane in Islamabad. Dr Siyal said the fellowship would enhance their research, leadership and professional skills while creating opportunities for international collaboration. He reaffirmed SAU’s commitment to supporting women researchers through professional development and international engagement.

Sindh Agriculture University (SAU) and Worldwide Manpower Resources (WMR) explored collaboration in banana fiber technology to convert agricultural waste into value-added products and create employment opportunities. WMR CEO Ehtasham Shahid visited SAU’s Banana Fiber Extraction Unit and reviewed the university’s research and product development work. Discussions with Dr. Inayatullah Rajper, Dr. Shokat Ali Abro and Dr. Aasia Panhwar focused on pilot projects, foreign investment and commercialization of banana fiber technology. The initiative aims to benefit farmers and industry while promoting sustainable agriculture and reducing agricultural waste

Vice Chancellor Engr. Prof. Dr. Altaf Ali Siyal has called for stronger collaboration among universities, research institutions, sugarcane growers and the sugar industry to improve productivity, resource efficiency and sustainability. Chairing the second-day session of the 58th Annual Convention of the Pakistan Society of Sugar Technologists (PSST), he highlighted challenges including water availability, rising costs, climate change, pests and diseases, and stressed practical research, precision agriculture and climate-smart technologies. Shiffat Zaidi, Hyder Bux Rustamani and Dr. Muhammad Chohan (PARC) also emphasized technological innovation and closer cooperation between researchers and the sugar industry. A commemorative shield was presented to Dr. Altaf Ali Siyal in recognition of his participation.

A delegation of 37 BS-17 probationary officers of the 53rd Common Training Program (CTP) visited Sindh Agriculture University (SAU), Tandojam, as part of their study tour of Sindh. Vice Chancellor Engr. Prof. Dr. Altaf Ali Siyal briefed the officers on SAU’s role in agricultural education, research and national development, stressing the importance of modern technology and innovation to improve agricultural productivity and food security. Dr. Abdul Mubeen Lodhi presented an overview of SAU’s academic programs, research and infrastructure. The delegation appreciated the university’s academic environment and visited the Horticulture Garden, Sports Complex, Malir Model Farm, laboratories and other facilities.

Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC) and Sindh Agriculture University (SAU), Tandojam, agreed to strengthen cooperation in agricultural research, joint projects, student internships and practical training. During a meeting with SAU Vice Chancellor Engr. Prof. Dr. Altaf Ali Siyal, the PARC delegation discussed renewal of the MoU, joint research and the Agricultural Linkages Program (ALP). Both sides emphasized collaboration to address climate change, water scarcity, crop productivity and pest-related challenges. Dr. Altaf Siyal said stronger partnerships with research organizations would provide students with practical training and help develop solutions for the agriculture sector, while Dr. Sajjad Ali Rao appreciated SAU’s contribution to agricultural education and research.