SAU and WMR Explore Collaboration to Develop Banana Fiber Technology
Sindh Agriculture University (SAU), Tandojam, and Worldwide Manpower Resources (WMR) are collaborating to explore the potential of banana fiber technology, aiming to transform agricultural waste into valuable products, create jobs, and promote sustainable agriculture in Sindh.
Initiative Details:
The partnership seeks to utilize banana plants and post-harvest residues efficiently by developing banana fiber for industrial and commercial applications. This initiative addresses the current issue of discarding much of these agricultural resources.
Visit and Discussion:
WMR Chief Executive Officer, Ehtasham Shahid, visited SAU to review their research and practical work in banana fiber extraction and product development. Dr. Aasia Akbar Panhwar, Adviser/Director of the Office of Research, Innovation, and Commercialization (ORIC), coordinated the visit.
During the visit:
- Shahid toured the university’s Banana Fiber Extraction Unit and Institute of Food Sciences and Technology.
- He was informed about research activities, fiber extraction techniques, and efforts to create value-added products.
- Discussions with Dean, Faculty of Crop Production, Dr. Inayatullah Rajper, and Dr. Shokat Ali Abro focused on launching pilot projects in banana fiber technology with foreign investment support.
Insights from SAU:
Dr. Rajper highlighted the potential of banana cultivation beyond fruit production, emphasizing that banana plants and residues can serve as valuable industrial raw materials. He believes developing banana fiber technology could:
- Turn agricultural waste into an economically viable resource.
- Create opportunities for farmers, new industries, and crop diversification.
- Promote sustainable and environmentally friendly agricultural practices.
Foreign Investment Prospects:
Shahid acknowledged SAU’s research and practical initiatives, praising the university’s potential in banana fiber technology. He suggested that foreign investment in pilot projects could establish a successful commercial model, generate employment, and unlock economic value from agricultural waste.
Dr. Aasia Panhwar emphasized SAU’s commitment to translating research into practical technologies and solutions for farmers, industry, and society. ORIC actively facilitates university-industry partnerships, commercialization of research, and international collaborations.
