Tuesday, December 16, 2025
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UoS hosts 18 activities on second day of Research Arena 2025:

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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SARGODHA, Dec 16 (APP):The University of Sargodha (UoS) organized more than 18 academic, research, and community-oriented activities on the second day of its Annual Research Arena 2025, reflecting the university’s strong commitment to research excellence and interdisciplinary engagement.
The day commenced with the inauguration of two major international conferences. The 3rd International Conference on Advancing Food Systems for a Sustainable and Nourished Future was opened with Vice Chancellor UoS, Prof. Dr. Qaisar Abbas, as the chief guest, while Prof. Dr. Kanwal Ameen, Vice Chancellor of GC University Faisalabad, attended as the guest of honour. The conference brought together national and international scholars to deliberate on food security, nutrition innovation, and the development of sustainable agri-food systems.
Addressing the conference, Prof. Dr. Qaisar Abbas underscored the pivotal role of research and development (R&D) and innovation in driving economic growth, technological progress, and sustainable solutions. In her remarks, Prof. Dr. Kanwal Ameen praised the visionary leadership of the UoS Vice Chancellor and highlighted the impact of globalization on food markets and changing consumer behavior.
Simultaneously, the 11th International Wheat Conference 2025, hosted by the Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, College of Agriculture, focused on genetic improvement, climate resilience, and future challenges in wheat production. The chief guest, Prof. Dr. Nasir Mahmood, Vice Chancellor of Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU), Islamabad, emphasized the need for innovative breeding strategies and strengthened international collaboration to enhance wheat productivity and ensure food security.
As part of the day’s activities, Prof. Dr. Qaisar Abbas inaugurated the 6th Book Fair 2025, themed “Echoes of Ink: Honoring the Written Word,” organized by the Wazir Agha Library. The book fair celebrated literary culture, promoted reading habits, and encouraged knowledge sharing among students and faculty.
The Vice Chancellor also inaugurated a Poster Display and Doctoral Research Expo, organized by the Institute of Education, which showcased innovative doctoral research and highlighted the scholarly contributions of emerging researchers.
The academic atmosphere was further enriched by a seminar titled “Computing for a Connected, Intelligent, and Sustainable Future,” organized by the Faculty of Computing and IT, focusing on the transformative role of digital technologies in addressing global challenges.
In addition, the Department of Allied Health Sciences organized a seminar and screening camp titled “Thalassemia Awareness & Screening Camp: Healthy Beginnings – Premarital Screening for a Thalassemia-Free Future,” emphasizing preventive healthcare and public awareness.
A two-day workshop on the Identification of Rock-Forming Minerals Using Petrographic Microscopes and Ore Minerals Using Stereoscopes, organized by the Department of Earth Sciences, provided hands-on training to students and young researchers.
Moreover, the Department of Urdu Language and Literature hosted a community engagement session titled “We Need Dialogues: Intersection of Literature, Culture, and Society in Pakistan,” fostering meaningful intellectual discourse on cultural narratives and social issues.
The diverse range of activities on the second day of the Annual Research Arena 2025 highlighted the University of Sargodha’s dedication to academic innovation, research collaboration, and community engagement.

PNCA showcases emerging calligraphic talent at NOOR-E-QALAM students’ exhibition

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
ISLAMABAD, Dec 16 (APP):The Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA) on Tuesday inaugurated the NOOR-E-QALAM Calligraphy Students’ Exhibition at the National Art Gallery, presenting a refined collection of works created by students of a six-month calligraphy course.
The exhibition was formally inaugurated by Farha Naz Akber, Parliamentary Secretary, National Heritage and Culture Division, who lauded the artistic quality and spiritual depth reflected in the students’ work.
She said the elegant depiction of Quranic verses and the artistic rendering of the beautiful names of Allah demonstrate the students’ dedication, discipline, and growing mastery of the traditional art form.
Expressing her appreciation, the chief guest noted that initiatives like NOOR-E-QALAM play a vital role in preserving Pakistan’s rich cultural and artistic heritage.
She voiced confidence that the young calligraphers would go on to represent Pakistan at national and international platforms through their creative excellence.
Farha Naz Akber also acknowledged the efforts of Class Coordinator Ms. Noshaba Naz for effectively organizing the course and exhibition, and commended Instructor Mr Shabbir Ahmed Zia for his guidance and mentorship in honing the students’ calligraphic skills.
The NOOR-E-QALAM Calligraphy Exhibition will remain open to the public at the National Art Gallery, PNCA, from December 16 to December 22.

Rubina Khalid condoles demise of former Punjab CM, Manzoor Ahmad Wattoo

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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ISLAMABAD, Dec 16 (APP):Chairperson of the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), Senator Rubina Khalid, has expressed deep sorrow and grief over the passing of former Chief Minister of Punjab, Manzoor Ahmad Wattoo.
In her condolence message, Senator Rubina Khalid said that the late Manzoor Ahmad Wattoo was a seasoned and visionary politician who rendered valuable services to Punjab and national politics.
She added that his political insight and commitment to public service would always be remembered.
The BISP Chairperson prayed for the elevation of the departed soul’s ranks and for patience and strength for the bereaved family.
She said that she stands in solidarity with the grieving family in this difficult time.

MPA Farah Azeem addressing a press conference regarding Army Public School Peshawar tragedy at press club Quetta.

By
Wajid
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APP26-161225 QUETTA: December 16 - MPA Farah Azeem addressing a press conference regarding Army Public School Peshawar tragedy at press club Quetta. APP/MNN/MAF/TZD/SSH
MPA Farah Azeem addressing a press conference regarding Army Public School Peshawar tragedy at press club Quetta.
APP26-161225
QUETTA: December 16 – 

Ambassador of Tajikistan Sharifzoda Yusuf Toir Called on Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan.

By
Wajid
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APP32-161225 ISLAMABAD: December 16 - Ambassador of Tajikistan Sharifzoda Yusuf Toir Called on Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan. APP/MAF/TZD/SSH
Ambassador of Tajikistan Sharifzoda Yusuf Toir Called on Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan.
APP32-161225
ISLAMABAD: December 16 –

Balochistan adopts hydroponics to transform agriculture amid water crisis

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
QUETTA, Dec 16 (APP):In a landmark move to modernize agriculture and tackle severe water scarcity, the Balochistan government has approved the introduction of hydroponics technology across the province.
The decision was finalized during a meeting of the Parliamentary Committee on the Public Sector Development Program (PSDP), chaired by Chief Minister (CM) Mir Sarfraz Bugti at the Chief Minister’s Secretariat on Tuesday.
The meeting, attended by parliamentary leaders from coalition parties, provincial ministers, and senior officials, endorsed a major project to establish hydroponic facilities and promote horticulture.
The committee agreed that hydroponics—an advanced farming system that uses minimal water while delivering higher yields is ideally suited for Balochistan’s arid climate.
In the pilot phase, the project will begin in ten districts as successful results will pave the way for province-wide adoption.
The initiative is expected to boost agricultural productivity, create jobs, and accelerate economic growth.
CM Sarfraz Bugti reaffirmed the government’s commitment to modern agriculture, stressing that high yield with less water is the fundamental requirement of modern agriculture. He emphasized that hydroponics is a top priority for achieving agricultural self-sufficiency.
The meeting also reviewed ongoing irrigation and dam projects.
The meeting also focused on Gwadar’s water crisis, as the district has been facing over two years of drought. Sarfraz Bugti directed that dams under construction be reserved exclusively for drinking water, urging authorities to expedite completion.
The CM underscored that irrigation and dam projects are vital for securing Balochistan’s agricultural future.
The session was attended by Provincial Ministers Mir Shoaib Nosherwani and Noor Muhammad Dummar, with Mir Sadiq Umrani and Mir Ali Hassan Zehri joining via video link. Parliamentary members Engineer Zmarak Khan, Haji Ali Madad Jattak, and Mir Abdul Majeed Badini were also present, alongside senior officials including Additional Chief Secretary Development Zahid Saleem, Secretary Irrigation Saleh Muhammad Nasir, and Secretary Agriculture Noor Ahmad Parkani.
The consensus reaffirmed the government’s resolve to ensure that development projects deliver tangible benefits to the people of Balochistan.

APS Peshawar incident anniversary observed at GCU Hyderabad

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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HYDERABAD:Government College University Hyderabad fraternity solemnly remembered the Shuhda-e-APS on Tuesday in front of the main assembly hall.
Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Moazzam Ali Khan, accompanied by senior faculty, staff, and students, honored the children by lighting candles and offering roses in their memory.
Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Dr. Moazzam Ali Khan said, “We must never forget the innocent lives lost and continue to promote peace and education as a tribute to their memory.

Martyrs of APS Peshawar tragedy to never be forgotten: Karim

By
Kamran Muraad
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QUETTA, Dec 16 (APP):Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz  (PML-N) Central Senior Leader and Focal Person Prime Minister Youth Program Chaudhry Naeem Karim, on Tuesday, paid tribute to the martyrs of the Army Public School (APS) Peshawar tragedy.
He said that the sacrifices of the innocent children and teachers of Army Public School Peshawar would never be forgotten, and December 16, 2014, would be remembered as a black day in the history of the country.
He said this while addressing a ceremony held in memory of the martyrs of the Army Public School Peshawar tragedy at the PML-N Balochistan Liaison Office.
Chaudhry Naeem Karim said that the grief and sorrow that the heartbreaking incident of December 16 had caused to the entire country is indescribable.
The sacrifices of these innocent heroes of Army Public School give us a message that we should forget our mutual differences and work together for a terrorism-free, developed and prosperous country, he said.
He said that even after 11 years, the grief of the APS tragedy is still present in the hearts of the entire nation, like the first day. We are proud of the families who have endured this great shock.
He said that the entire nation shares the grief of these grieving families equally and the sacrifices of the innocent heroes of APS would always be remembered in the history of the country.
He said that the APS tragedy united the entire nation against terrorism and the armed forces reiterated their commitment to eradicate terrorism with the help of the entire nation, which has resulted in the eradication of terrorism to a large extent.
He said that today, once again, terrorists are trying to target our security forces and innocent citizens, and the armed forces are struggling to deal with the scourge of terrorism with full determination to thwart their nefarious designs from the country.

Skills training vital to reducing youth unemployment: Speaker

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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0
LAHORE, Dec 16 (APP):Punjab Assembly (PA) Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan has emphasized that equipping youth with practical skills is the only sustainable solution to unemployment.
He said that neither government nor private sector efforts alone can provide jobs for all young people. He added that unemployment was a growing concern, with even degree-holding youth frequently unable to secure employment.
The speaker made these remarks while addressing the first annual convocation under the Chief Minister Punjab Skilled Program for TEVTA (Technical Education & Vocational Training Authority) hospitality pass-outs, held at a private hotel, here on Tuesday. He said that with 70 percent of the population seeking employment, only two percent can realistically be provided jobs at the government level, making skill development indispensable.
Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan also stressed the importance of promoting Urdu in technical education to preserve the national language. He highlighted that rural youth have been serving the country for decades and should be included in national institutions, urging TEVTA to expand technical education at district and tehsil levels.
He said that TEVTA has so far trained 200,000 youth and facilitated employment, adding that the hospitality sector offers vast opportunities for career growth.
On the occasion, TEVTA Chairman Brigadier (R) Muhammad Sajid Khokhar said TEVTA provides technical education of international standards, including practical training through partnerships with hotels, and has introduced a diploma program in hospitality.
Secretary Skill Development Nadir Chatha said 56 cooking classes were being launched in collaboration with Mera Kitchen, with 47 out of 92 trained students already employed locally or abroad.
Chairman Skill Development Task Force Adnan Afzal Chatha highlighted global demand for hospitality professionals and announced advanced IT and AI training programs across 14 laboratories in Punjab.
Later, certificates and medals were distributed among 100 students at the conclusion of the convocation. Parliamentary Secretary Saadia Taimur also attended the ceremony.

Pakistan progressing rapidly by govt cohesive policies, says Gilani

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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0
MULTAN, Dec 16 (APP):Senate Chairman Yousaf Raza Gilani said the country was achieving substantial progress under coordinated domestic and foreign policy of the government while establishing positive image worldwide.
Speaking to PPP’s local leaders, administrative officials with media personnels at his farmhouse in Miranpur here on Tuesday, he said the country’s defense was in strong hands, adding that those who tried earlier to obstruct the economy for personal gains had met their just end along with their facilitators.
Gilani highlighted the historic sacrifices of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) for promotion of democracy with development and security of the nation.
He underlined PPP’s founder, Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto role for giving the country a constitution, and said today it’s been well protected by his grandson, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari. According to him, Bilawal is on toe of protecting legacy of his grandfather and mother.
He emphasized that those who incited the nation, especially youth against state institutions in the name of democracy were insincere to the nation.
He praised sacrifices of Pakistan Army in defending the homeland, noting that Pakistan remained a cradle of peace due to their professional skills and dedication. He added that the world recognized courage and capabilities of the armed forces.
The Senate Chairman further said that for the country’s construction, development, and stability, the PPP, PML-N, and allied parties got united on a common platform.
He urged all patriots and democracy supporters to play a positive role in establishing Pakistan’s exemplary image.
Gilani stated that the country was currently progressing rapidly and that the government taking serious steps for development of South Punjab. Ongoing mega projects at the grassroots level aimed to completely eliminate regional backwardness, he said.
Commissioner Dera Ghazi Khan Division Muhammad Ashfaq Chaudhry, RPO Dera Ghazi Khan Muhammad Azhar Akram, Deputy Commissioner Rajanpur Muhammad Imran and other dignitaries were present on the occasion.
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