Over Rs2.3b budget approved for UVAS

VC flaunts 121 research projects worth Rs1.49b

LAHORE:

The syndicate of the University of Veterinary and Animal Science (UVAS) Lahore has approved a budget of Rs2.398 billion for the financial year 2020-21 with a primary focus on innovation, applied research, development, improved facilities for imparting quality education and transfer of technology.

While chairing the 63rd syndicate meeting, Vice Chancellor Dr Nasim Ahmad stated that the ongoing 121 research projects have an estimated cost of Rs1.49 billion.

Professor Nasim Ahmad told the meeting that a hefty amount of Rs564.71 million has been allocated for development projects. Of the total development allocation, Rs414.71 million will be spent on ongoing projects, while Rs150 million has been earmarked for funding new projects.

“A project proposed by the UVAS for livestock sector development through capacity building, allied research and technology transfer is being evaluated by the Higher Education Commission (HEC) for funding,” he added.

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Giving details, Dr Nasim said that Rs200 million had been allocated for enhancement of research facilities at the UVAS Ravi Campus Pattoki, Rs156 million for establishment of University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences in Bahawalpur, Rs24.72 million for establishment of a Training Centre for Biologics at UVAS Ravi Campus Pattoki, Rs18.2 million for in-service training facilities of advanced veterinary education and professional development for veterinary professionals, and Rs15.8 million for feasibility study for the establishment of the Centre for Advanced Reproductive Technology in Livestock.

Earlier, Treasurer Muhammad Umar, while presenting the budget before the syndicate, said that the university expects a non-development income of Rs1.79 billion from different sources during the ongoing year.

“Moreover, non-development expenditure of nearly Rs1.98 billion has been predicted, resulting in a deficit of over Rs191.54 million.”

The VC also said that Rs880.28 million is expected to be generated by the varsity from its own sources.

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He stressed that the university will try to overcome the budget deficit by generating more income from its own resources, such as by increasing its research-based products and diagnostic and clinical services for stakeholders.

Special austerity measures will also be adopted to limit the recurring expenditure within available funds, he asserted.

The syndicate was also briefed about the various academic, research, training and online telemedicine services, online teaching and exams during the coronavirus pandemic, as well as university development projects during the meeting.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 15^th, 2020.