The Country Coordinator of the Turkish International Cooperation and Coordination Agency, Ms. Saliha TUNA, led a TIKA delegation to Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture University Rawalpindi to explore collaborative projects in research, innovation and capacity building. The team was received by Prof. Dr. Qamar-uz-Zaman alongside deans, directors and senior faculty who engaged on potential joint initiatives in education, agriculture and community development.
Prof. Dr. Qamar-uz-Zaman emphasised the university’s commitment to turning research excellence into sustainable development for rural communities and institutional strengthening. Discussions focused on practical partnerships that support agricultural innovation, rural livelihoods and technological modernisation while building local capacity across disciplines.
Ms. Saliha TUNA was briefed on PMAS-AAUR’s research strengths, technical expertise and modern infrastructure, including plans for a proposed TIKA-supported cream honey processing facility to be hosted at the university. The delegation toured the Apiculture Farmers Training Lab at the Pak-Korea Capacity Building Center, where hands-on training programs and laboratory operations drew particular praise from the visitors.
At the University Institute of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, the delegation reviewed research facilities that could underpin future TIKA-supported projects. A briefing at the Center for Precision Agriculture highlighted pioneering work in remote sensing, drone applications and digital agricultural solutions designed to empower local farmers and strengthen supply chains, underlining how TIKA collaboration can accelerate technology transfer.
Expressing appreciation for the university’s innovative initiatives and research culture, Ms. Saliha commended PMAS-AAUR’s proactive approach and reaffirmed TIKA’s commitment to support collaborative research and capacity-building programmes aimed at socio-economic development across Pakistan. The visit set the stage for targeted partnerships that link academic expertise with community impact.
