Times of Pakistan

SAU hosts international summit to transform Pakistan’s cotton future

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HYDERABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 9th Apr, 2026) The Sindh Agriculture University (SAU) Tandojam is poised to emerge as a global hub for agricultural innovation as it gears up to host a prestigious two-day international conference titled “Cotton Seed Production and Development: Issues and Solutions” from April 14–15, 2026.

Organized by the department of plant breeding and genetics with support from the Higher education Commission (HEC), Islamabad the conference will bring together leading scientists, policymakers, academicians and private sector stakeholders at the Main Auditorium, Faculty of Crop Production. The event aims to chart a scientific roadmap to revive Pakistan’s struggling cotton sector and tackle the pressing “white gold” crisis.

According to the SAU spokesperson, the opening ceremony on April 14 will be led by Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Altaf Ali Siyal as chief guest, accompanied by guest of honor Dr. Mazharuddin Keerio. The ceremony will also mark the inauguration of a specialized exhibition hall, followed by technical sessions focusing on advanced seed technologies and climate-resilient cotton varieties.

The conference would witness strong international participation, with experts from China and Japan attending in person, while renowned global researchers will join virtually to share cutting-edge insights. National experts from the Nuclear Institute of Agriculture (NIA), Agriculture Research Sindh (ARS) and Agriculture Extension Sindh (AES) departments along with representatives from major cities including Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad and Faisalabad will also contribute significantly.

On the second day, discussions will center on collaborative solutions to key challenges including low yield, scarcity of pure seed and the impacts of climate change on cotton, soil and water resources. The closing session will feature guest of honor Dr. Mehboob Ali Siyal, who will join the Vice Chancellor in reviewing outcomes and distributing certificates.

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