Lahore, Punjab University marked World Fisheries Day with a special event focused on enhancing awareness and promoting the potential of white meat in the market through collaborative efforts between industry and academia. The event, organized by the PU Institute of Zoology, highlighted the importance of fisheries in the country’s economy and the need for applied research in this field.

According to University of the Punjab, Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Khalid Mahmood, while addressing the gathering, emphasized the role of such research that benefits both the nation and the country. He encouraged students to engage in internships and actively participate in the practical field. Dr Mahmood also acknowledged the Institute of Zoology’s contribution to improving PU’s ranking and assured support for establishing a fisheries department within the university.

Dr Abid Mehmood, CEO of the Punjab Agricultural Research Board (PARB), pointed out the favorable environment for fish breeding in Pakistan and the significance of high-quality feed in breeding good fish. He encouraged students to venture into business rather than seeking jobs.

Dr Sikandar Hayat, Director General of the Fisheries Department Punjab, expressed his commitment to continue supporting fish farming in Pakistan to stabilize the country’s economy. Dr Noor Khan, emphasizing the ongoing research for the development of fish farming in Pakistan, noted the abundance of resources in the country that could be efficiently utilized.

The importance of fish as a solution to the meat shortage in the market was highlighted, with Dr Khan thanking PARB for funding the project. Nabeel Akhtar Chaudhry, CEO of Thai Union Group, stressed the necessity of cooperation among industry, academia, and the fisheries department to boost fish breeding, citing the crucial role of applied research in national universities and the potential impact of the blue economy on Pakistan’s economy.

Dr Ruhi, Director of the Institute of Zoology, thanked the participants and declared the institute’s ongoing commitment to wildlife, fly breeding, and fish farming development. The event also featured an awareness walk about fisheries, led by VC Dr Khalid Mahmood, underscoring the importance of this sector.