A Memorandum of Understanding between Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture University Rawalpindi and the State Bank of Pakistan Banking Services Corporation Rawalpindi was formalised at the university campus to advance agricultural financing and financial inclusion across the Potohar region. The agreement was signed by Prof. Dr. Qamar-uz-Zaman, Vice Chancellor PMAS-AAUR, and Mr. Rizwan Khaleel Shamsi, Chief Manager SBP BSC Rawalpindi, with Dr. Farida Faisal, Director University Institute of Management Sciences, acting as chief coordinator and host.
The MoU sets out collaboration on core areas including agricultural financing, digital onboarding of rural clients and promotion of climate-smart agricultural practices. The partnership aims to make formal finance more accessible to farmers while encouraging adoption of resilient farming techniques suited to local conditions.
Planned activities under the agreement include joint seminars, conferences and field days designed to connect researchers, policymakers, bankers and extension networks. Awareness campaigns and capacity-building programs will target farmers, students, women entrepreneurs and youth to raise financial literacy and technical know-how related to sustainable agriculture.
Both institutions will support joint research and evidence-based policy studies to inform better credit products and climate-aware interventions. The MoU also offers internship and attachment opportunities for PMAS-AAUR students at SBP BSC Rawalpindi, strengthening practical training and easing the transition from academia to the financial sector.
Stakeholders at the ceremony highlighted that stronger links between university expertise and the central bank’s outreach can empower farming communities and foster women s entrepreneurship. By prioritising agricultural financing and climate-smart solutions, the partnership seeks to enhance resilience and inclusive growth across the Potohar agricultural landscape.
