The Department of Farm Structures and Postharvest Engineering applies the principles of farm structures, postharvest engineering, process engineering, and rural electrification to enhance agricultural productivity and promote innovation in the processing of agricultural produce, as well as the design and structural engineering of farms and agro-based industries.
Established in 1977, the Department offers academic programs leading to the Bachelor of Engineering (Agriculture), Master of Engineering, and Ph.D. degrees in Farm Structures and Postharvest Engineering. These programs are designed in accordance with the Higher Education Commission (HEC) curriculum and emphasize modern storage systems, drying technologies, postharvest practices, farm building design, controlled-environment structures, and technologies that extend the shelf life of agricultural produce.
Research within the Department focuses on the design of agricultural structures, including storage facilities, livestock housing, machinery sheds, and environment-controlled buildings that enhance animal comfort and overall farm productivity. It also covers processing and preservation, storage, drying, postharvest losses, and postharvest engineering innovations.
In addition to teaching and research, the Department provides extension and advisory services to farmers, small-scale processors, and self-help groups. These services include process optimization, new product development, and demonstrations of food processing machinery and equipment. The Department also offers consultancy and evaluation services for agro-processing equipment manufacturers.
The mission of the Department is to produce technically competent and skilled professionals who can contribute to the sustainable development of agriculture, benefiting both society and end-users through the application of engineering, science, and technology.