SAU VC Calls for Stronger Link Between Academia & Job Market

HYDERABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 1st Apr, 2026) Stressing the critical need to bridge the gap between education and employment, Vice Chancellor of Sindh Agriculture University (SAU), Tandojam Engr. Prof. Dr. Altaf Ali Siyal underscored the importance of equipping graduates with both technical expertise and essential soft skills to secure meaningful job placements across diverse sectors and departments.

He expressed these views while addressing a welcome ceremony held in honour of Dr. Muneer Ahmed Mangrio on his appointment as Dean, Faculty of Agricultural Engineering and Technology on Wednesday.

According to the SAU spokesperson, on this occasion, highlighting a significant concern, Dr. Siyal pointed out inconsistencies in recruitment practices, noting that positions designated for agricultural engineers were, at times, filled by civil engineers, thereby undermining professional specialization. He emphasized that merit and discipline-specific qualifications must be strictly observed to ensure efficiency and quality in key sectors such as agricultural engineering and extension services.

The Vice Chancellor added that the university was actively working to facilitate job placements and strengthen institutional linkages with various departments and sectors. He urged faculty members to adopt innovative teaching methodologies and focus on enhancing students’ soft skills including communication, leadership and problem-solving abilities.

He further stated that the role of agricultural engineers in the extension sector cannot be overlooked, therefore, the requirement of a Professional Engineer (PE) licence should not be made mandatory for agricultural engineers involved in the implementation of agricultural machinery and technology.

Earlier, speaking on the occasion, newly appointed Dean Dr. Muneer Ahmed Mangrio expressed his sincere gratitude to the university leadership, particularly the Vice Chancellor, for reposing confidence in him.

“I am deeply honoured to assume this responsibility. I will strive with full dedication to strengthen the Faculty of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, promote quality education and foster research and innovation,” he said.

Dr. Mangrio added that through collective efforts with faculty and students, the university would continue to address key challenges in the agriculture sector and contribute effectively towards national development.

Among those who attended the ceremony were Deans Dr. Aijaz Ali Khooharo, Dr. Ghiyasuddin Shah, Dr. Abdul Mubeen Lodhi, Registrar Ghulam Mohiyuddin Qureshi, Dr. Mashooq Talpur, Dr. Farman Chandio, Dr. Irfan Sheikh, Dr. Mehmood Leghari, Shakeel Soomro along with a large number of faculty members.