China’s Consul General Zhao Shiren has unveiled ambitious plans to bolster the longstanding partnership between China and the University of Agriculture Faisalabad (UAF) through the introduction of a merit and need-based scholarship project. In a meeting with UAF Vice-Chancellor Dr. Iqrar Ahmad Khan, alongside other university officials and Chinese university alumni, Shiren emphasized the profound friendship between the two nations and highlighted their extensive collaboration in various sectors, including education, energy, and infrastructure.
Underlining the transformative potential of initiatives like the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) in driving development and mutual prosperity, Shiren lauded UAF’s commitment to academic excellence and its pivotal role in addressing agricultural challenges. Dr. Iqrar Ahmad Khan echoed Shiren’s sentiments, emphasizing the deep educational connections between UAF and China, with numerous faculty members having pursued higher education in Chinese universities.
A notable development highlighted during the meeting was the initiation of a Sino-Pak dual diploma program in modern agricultural technology, a collaboration between UAF and Ballie College China. This program aims to facilitate cross-cultural exchange and knowledge transfer by allowing students to spend two years studying at UAF followed by a third year in China.
UAF showcased its dedication to agricultural advancement through the introduction of high-yielding crop varieties and the signing of 73 memoranda of understanding with Chinese academic institutions to foster research partnerships and academic exchanges. The university’s international partnerships, including the Pak-Korea Nutrition Center and the Confucius Institute, were also celebrated for their contributions to cultural and educational enrichment.
The meeting, attended by prominent figures from UAF, marked the beginning of a new chapter in collaboration between UAF and China, promising to shape the future of agricultural innovation and cross-cultural understanding. With the launch of the scholarship project and other initiatives, the partnership between China and UAF is set to reach unprecedented heights, benefiting students and fostering mutual cooperation in the field of education.
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