University of Agriculture Faisalabad (UAF) Vice Chancellor Dr Iqrar Ahmad Khan has said that over 40% of the country's population faces malnutrition and climate change poses a significant global threat, warranting collaborative action.
He expressed these views during an event held to commemorate the World Food Day, dedicated to the theme 'water is life, water is food. Leave no one behind.'
This theme emphasised the importance of taking action to enhance food and nutrition security, a critical concern as global malnutrition costs the world economy an annual sum of $3.5 trillion.
The event was jointly celebrated by the Pak-Korea Nutrition Centre, the National Institute of Food Science and Technology (NIFSAT), the Faculty of Food, Nutrition, and Home Science at UAF, the Punjab Food Authority, and WASA.
The programme featured a symbolic walk and a seminar focused on the nexus between water, food, and nutrition security.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Khan emphasised that access to proper food and nutrition was a fundamental human right, yet millions worldwide still lack access to healthy food and clean water.
He urged that the precious resource of water should not be taken for granted, stressing the need for rational and responsible water usage.
Dr Masood Sadiq Butt expressed grave concern over malnutrition, emphasising that it has evolved into a major crisis.
He shared the historical significance of World Food Day, initiated by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, and its purpose to raise awareness of world hunger and promote efforts to combat it.
Dr Butt also stressed the importance of creating awareness regarding balanced food consumption.
Dr Imran Pasha noted that UAF pioneered the launch of the Human Nutrition and Dietetics programme in Pakistan, which has since been adopted by numerous universities.
Dr Qasim Raza underscored the Punjab Food Authority's efforts to enforce food hygiene and quality standards across the province, emphasizing their commitment to ensuring safe and nutritious food for all.
Published in The Express Tribune, October 17th, 2023.
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