LAHORE: The University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences (UVAS) Lahore and the Institute of Public Health (IPH) Lahore are contemplating the launch of a collaborative Bachelor of Science degree program in Human Nutrition and Dietetics, following a meeting held at UVAS City Campus on Monday.

According to University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, the meeting was presided over by UVAS Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Masood Rabbani and attended by IPH Dean and Chief Executive Officer Prof. Dr. Saira Afzal, along with other academic leaders from both institutions. Discussions focused on potential areas for collaboration, including academics, research, public health, one health, and preventive healthcare, besides the proposed degree program. The two institutions agreed to appoint focal persons to work out the details for the joint program.

Prof. Dr. Masood Rabbani highlighted the university's commitment to enhancing undergraduate degree programs and providing skill-based training. He emphasized UVAS’s efforts to strengthen industry linkages and sought IPH's assistance in placing UVAS students for internships at IPH-affiliated hospitals. Prof. Dr. Saira Afzal expressed a desire for collaboration in areas such as microbiology, one-health, food safety, public health, and business education, following her meeting with Prof. Dr. Masood Rabbani to discuss mutual interests.