1,000 agri trainees sent to China

Seed tech programme under joint initiative has already trained 700 professionals

WUHAN:

Pakistan is significantly enhancing its agricultural modernisation efforts by deploying 1,000 specialists to China for specialised training under a key bilateral initiative backed by the leadership of both countries. The multi-phase programme is aimed at building expertise in advanced agricultural technologies, biotechnology and sustainable practices. Around 700 professionals have already returned to Pakistan after completing their training, while new groups continue to arrive in China for ongoing and upcoming sessions.

A central component of the initiative is the current training programme on seed production and processing technology. Jointly organised by Huazhong Agricultural University, a leading Chinese institution in agricultural sciences, and Wuhan Qingfa-Hesheng Seed Co Ltd, which has more than two decades of collaboration experience with Pakistan, the programme is running from November 10 through next February.

The training adopts an integrated "theory plus practice" approach to strengthen the professional competencies of 56 Pakistani participants. All trainees hold at least a master's degree and represent a wide range of sectors, including government, businesses, academia and civil society organisations from across Pakistan. The group also includes 11 women, reflecting the growing participation of women in agricultural innovation.

The curriculum covers key areas such as crop breeding science, seed production systems, variety selection and processing technologies. Participants also visit production facilities, research laboratories and corporate farms to gain hands-on exposure to modern agricultural operations.

Muhammad Anser, a seed industry representative from Gujranwala, Punjab, said midway through the programme that the training had provided participants with extensive exposure to China's technological advancements. He noted that the integration of molecular-assisted breeding, gene editing and industrial research demonstrated how innovation could be translated into practical farming solutions.

Maqbool Ahmed, an agricultural extension officer from Quetta, Balochistan, described the initiative as highly relevant for Pakistan's needs. He said China's achievements in seed technology and modern breeding methods offered valuable lessons, particularly through a practical, problem-solving approach that incorporates artificial intelligence and sustainable practices.

Rashdi Syed Muzafar Ali Shah, an organic cotton project coordinator from Lasbela, Balochistan, highlighted the programme's emphasis on agricultural fundamentals. He said the techniques being taught in seed production, certification and protection would directly contribute to improving seed quality and farmer livelihoods in his region.

Sidra Rameen, an environmental programme officer with Ghazi Barotha Taraqiati Idara, said participants viewed themselves as bridges between China and Pakistan. She said the aim was to transform acquired knowledge into practical solutions for sustainability and innovation, contributing not only to Pakistan's food security but also to stronger bilateral relations and shared agricultural progress.

The initiative marks a significant step in Pakistan-China agricultural cooperation, combining theoretical knowledge with practical application to address modern farming challenges. By focusing on advanced technologies and sustainable methods, the programme is helping build a skilled workforce capable of driving agricultural transformation across Pakistan, with particular benefits for regions such as Balochistan, where modern farming techniques can improve rural livelihoods and economic resilience.