SAU VC stresses vital role of agricultural engineering in boosting farm productivity

HYDERABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 20th Apr, 2026) Vice Chancellor of Sindh Agriculture University (SAU), Tandojam Engr. Prof. Dr Altaf Ali Siyal has emphasized that agricultural engineering has emerged as a cornerstone of modern agriculture and is essential for enhancing productivity in the current era of rapid technological advancement.

He expressed these views during his visit to the engineering workshop of the Department of Farm Power and Machinery, Faculty of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, where he interacted with faculty members and staff.

During the visit, the vice chancellor conducted a detailed inspection of the available machinery and directed that students should be thoroughly trained in both modern and conventional agricultural equipment.

He stressed the need for hands-on training to equip students with practical skills in machinery operation, maintenance and repair.

He stated that without the integration of agricultural engineering practices, it would be difficult to achieve sustainable growth in the agricultural sector.

He highlighted the importance of adopting modern technologies such as farm mechanization, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing to effectively tackle challenges like climate change and resource scarcity.

Dr Siyal also underscored the importance of timely maintenance of equipment and called for further improvement and modernization of the workshop environment to enhance learning outcomes.

He noted that efforts were being made to strengthen coordination with government and relevant institutions to secure due recognition for the BE Agricultural Engineering degree at the national level. He said such initiatives would help create better employment opportunities for graduates in both public and private sectors.

Announcing plans for the upgradation of the workshop, Dr Siyal said comprehensive measures would be taken to improve infrastructure, provide modern tools and ensure better practical facilities for students.

On the occasion, Dean Faculty of Agricultural Engineering and Technology Prof Dr Munir Ahmed Mangrio said that the faculty was focusing on curriculum development, promotion of research activities and practical training in line with modern requirements. He added that innovation and research in agricultural engineering were key to making agriculture sustainable and profitable.

Chairman Department of Farm Power and Machinery Prof Dr Farman Ali Chandio briefed the vice chancellor that students were being provided hands-on training in the use and maintenance of tractors, agricultural implements, irrigation systems and modern machinery.

He added that the faculty was also strengthening linkages with industry to align students’ skills with market needs.

A large number of faculty members, officers, employees and students were also present on the occasion.