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FAISALABAD, Oct 21 (APP):A three-day international conference titled “Sustainable Approaches to Address Global Food Security Challenges” began on Tuesday at Jinnah Auditorium, Government College Women University Faisalabad (GCWUF). The event is organized by the university’s Department of Food Science and Technology and brings together over 60 national and international food scientists, academicians, and more than 600 registered participants from across Pakistan and abroad.
Chairman Punjab Higher Education Commission (PHEC) Prof. Dr. Iqrar Ahmad Khan inaugurated the conference, calling the theme “the need of the time.” Addressing the audience, he highlighted Pakistan’s alarming food insecurity, noting that over 40% of the population lives below the poverty line. He emphasized the importance of uplifting farmers, promoting organic agriculture, and ensuring equitable food distribution to build national resilience.
GCWUF Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Kanwal Ameen (T.I.) welcomed participants and remarked: “Conferences are not just about research papers — they are about building meaningful connections that drive sustainable solutions.”
She stressed the urgency of reducing food waste, restoring public trust in farmers, and promoting healthy, organic lifestyles to create a sustainable and secure food system.
The inaugural session was also graced by Prof. Dr. Zulfiqar Ali, Vice Chancellor of the University of Agriculture Faisalabad (UAF), who joined as guest of honour, along with representatives from key organizations such as PFDA, IFANCA, PANAH, and universities from the USA, France, Egypt, China, UAE, Bahrain, and Sweden. The experts emphasized the need for innovation, regulatory frameworks, and value addition to combat malnutrition and enhance food safety standards globally.
In her welcome address, Pro Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Zill-i-Huma Nazli set the tone for the conference, followed by Prof. Dr. Aysha Sameen, who presented the conference’s vision and mission.
Adding a creative touch, the event featured a Food Display Show inaugurated by Dr. Iqrar Ahmad Khan, along with Dr. Kanwal Ameen, Dr. Zulfiqar Ali, and other distinguished guests. The display showcased innovative, sustainable food products developed by students from GCWUF, GCUF, UAF, and other institutions — reflecting the commitment of young researchers to eco-friendly, nutritious food solutions.
Running from October 21 to 23, the conference serves as a dynamic platform for researchers, policymakers, industry professionals, and students to explore and exchange actionable strategies for achieving a resilient and food-secure future.