Universities, Growers, and Sugar Industry Must Collaborate: SAU VC
The Vice Chancellor of Sindh Agriculture University (SAU), Tandojam Engr. Prof. Dr. Altaf Ali Siyal, has emphasized the need for stronger collaboration among universities, research institutions, sugarcane growers, and the sugar industry to boost productivity, enhance resource efficiency, and ensure the sustainability of Pakistan’s sugar sector.
This call was made during the second day of the 58th Annual Convention of the Pakistan Society of Sugar Technologists (PSST) held in Karachi. The convention gathered professionals from the sugar industry, researchers, growers, technologists, and other stakeholders to discuss technological advancements, production challenges, and emerging trends.
Key Points:
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Sugarcane’s Significance: Dr. Siyal noted that sugarcane is a vital cash crop and the primary raw material for the sugar industry, but it faces challenges related to productivity, water availability, production costs, climate variability, pests, and varietal performance.
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Research Agenda: He stressed the need for a coordinated research agenda that aligns farmers’ and industry needs with scientific expertise from universities and research institutions. Research should focus on practical problems, aiming to increase yield, improve sugar recovery, enhance water and input efficiency, reduce costs, and boost crop resilience to climate change.
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SAU’s Role: SAU can contribute through multidisciplinary research in areas like crop production, plant breeding, soil and water management, plant protection, agricultural engineering, biotechnology, and climate-smart agriculture.
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Practical Application: Dr. Siyal urged that research should not operate in isolation but should be applied practically through joint research, field trials, and technology demonstrations.
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Industry Insights: Industrialist Shiffat Zaidi and Hyderabad-based sugar mill COO Hyder Bux Rustamani highlighted the importance of technological advancement and knowledge-sharing to improve industry performance.
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Research Participation: Dr. Muhammad Chohan from Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC) and former Agriculture Extension Director Nabi Bux Junejo also participated, emphasizing research and technological innovation in agriculture and the sugar sector.
