To expedite research and development activities for uplifting the olive sector in Pakistan, the University of Sargodha signed the Letter of Intent (LOI) with the Centre of Excellence for Olive Research and Training (CEFORT) of Barani Agricultural Research Institute, Chakwal.
On behalf of Sargodha University, Prof Dr Farooq Anwar Director ORIC, and Muhammad Rafique Dogar Project Director CEFORT & Director BARI signed the letter during the National Olive Festival Ceremony held at National Agricultural Research Centre (NARC).
UoS Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Muhammad Saleem Mazhar applauded the efforts underway for making Pakistan self-sufficient in olive oil production.
He urged the researchers to share innovative ideas and introduce advanced techniques for the promotion of olive cultivation and accelerate olive oil extraction. The industry-academia linkage will positively contribute to the knowledge economy of Pakistan, he added.
Both parties agreed to strengthen research and development activities in the Olive sector including internship facilitation, co-supervision of postgraduate students, research trials/projects, training, and seminars.
According to the LOI, both parties would formulate a Joint Working Group to devise plans and monitor its implementation. The group may also identify sub-activities of each organization; facilitate procedural matters with the respective authorities while remaining within their respective legal mandate.
