Lahore: The University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences (UVAS) Lahore, in collaboration with the Pakistan Poultry Association (PPA), organized the eighth Poultry Science Conference (PSC) under the theme "Shaping the Future of Poultry: Innovation, Resilience and Food Security" at the Expo Centre Lahore. The conference, part of the International Poultry Expo (PSC-IPEX) 2026, aimed to uplift Pakistan's poultry sector.
According to University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, the event was inaugurated by Haroon Akhtar Khan, Adviser to the Prime Minister for Industries & Production. The conference gathered prominent figures including UVAS Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. Masood Rabbani, IPEX Chief Organizer Dr. Rana Sajjad Arshad, and a wide array of academicians, researchers, veterinarians, and industry stakeholders.
In his address, Mr. Khan highlighted the poultry industry's critical role in food security, employment, and economic development. He emphasized the need for an export strategy to position the industry in global markets and stressed the importance of ensuring the continuous availability of feed and raw materials. Prof. Dr. Masood Rabbani discussed the health benefits of poultry products and called for dispelling misconceptions about poultry meat and eggs. He also emphasized the need for alternatives to antibiotics and the use of technology in poultry farming.
Malik Muhammad Sharif acknowledged government efforts in supporting the poultry sector, which employs over 1.5 million people and contributes significantly to the economy. However, Mr. Abdul Basit pointed out challenges due to taxes imposed on the sector, urging for their removal to boost production and exports.
Dr. Rana Sajjad Arshad explained the conference's objectives, focusing on knowledge sharing among academia, professionals, and researchers. Dr. Hanif Nazir Ch expressed gratitude for the efforts of UVAS leadership and participants in organizing the event. The conference featured various expert lectures on topics ranging from incubation techniques to disease management in poultry.