Talking points: Agriculture university’s senate talks of streamlining institution

Body discussed varsity’s progress, approved budgetary estimates for 2016-17

PESHAWAR: Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Governor Iqbal Zafar Jhagra presided over the second meeting of the senate of the University of Agriculture, Peshawar, at the Governor House on Thursday. The lengthy agenda included a discussion about streamlining the workings of the varsity.

According to a handout, the meeting was also attended by the vice-chancellor of the university, Higher Education Secretary Saleem Khan, Agriculture, Principal Secretary to Governor Sikandar Qayyum, representatives of the Higher Education Commission and members of the senate.

The governor said knowledge and research are the main steps for peace and development of any nation. He added the varsity can play a vital role in the development of the agriculture sector of the province and appreciated its broad research. Jhagra urged the administration to ensure the utilisation of funds with care and in accordance with the financial action plan.

The senate also approved the budgetary estimates for the year 2016-17 and expenditures for 2015-16. It said the budget should be presented for approval to the senate within the given time.

Earlier, the vice chancellor of the university briefed the meeting about administrative, research and curriculum activities along with the procedure about new appointments.

He explained that the university provides a strong base for research in the fields of agriculture and livestock.

He also said the institute introduced several varieties of different crops. He added it has five faculties, three institutes and around 9,000 students enrolled. The total teaching faculty stands at 336 out of which 195 were PhD holders.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 22^nd, 2016.