08/10/2025
A high-level university delegation visited the National Cotton Breeding Institute (NCBI) research farm to strengthen ties between academic research and sustainable cotton development. The visit highlighted ongoing efforts to boost the resilience and yield of cotton, one of the world's most important natural fibers.
The delegation was led by Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. Muhammad Kamran and included the Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture and Environment, Prof. Dr. Tanvir Hussain Turabi. They were warmly received by NCBI Director Dr. Usman Aziz, who guided the team through the field facilities and shared updates on innovative cotton breeding research. This research focuses on climate change adaptation and efficient resource use.
“At World Cotton Day, this visit underscores our commitment to a future where cotton continues to be a lifeline for millions,” said Prof. Dr. Muhammad Kamran. “The work at the NCBI is part of a global effort toward sustainable textiles and secure livelihoods for farming communities.”
Prof. Dr. Tanvir Hussain Turabi emphasized the role of science and education in advancing the cotton sector. “The future of cotton lies in innovation. Our collaboration with the NCBI demonstrates how academic research can generate practical solutions across the entire cotton value chain, from farm to fabric,” he said.
Faculty members from the Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics including Dr. Abdul Rehman (Lecturer), Dr. Iftikhar Ali (Lecturer), Dr. Humayun Raza (Assistant Professor), and Dr. Hafiz Ghulam Muhiuddin (Assistant Professor) joined the visit, along with students and NCBI field staff. Their participation reflected the strong collaborative spirit driving these research initiatives.
The visit concluded with a cake-cutting ceremony at the Dean’s office to celebrate World Cotton Day, symbolizing a bright and prosperous future for the cotton industry. The event reaffirmed the university’s commitment to playing a key role in the global cotton community through research, innovation, and partnerships.
The NCBI team extended thanks to Prof. Dr. Makshoof Ahmad (Chairman, Soil Science), Prof. Dr. Muhammad Naeem (Chairman, PBG), Dr. Moin Alam Khan, Dr. Fakhar Uz Zaman, Dr. Azhar Hussain, and others who were present on the occasion.
Additionally, Dr. Usman thanked Dr. Azhar (Associate Professor of Soil Science) and Dr. Hafiz Tanvir (Lecturer, Soil Science), for their support and timely discussions on soil conditioning and climate change, which were key to the research's success.
