Agri training in China reviewed: Rana Tanveer

February 14, 2025 (MLN): Pakistan is set to send 1,000 agricultural graduates to China under the Prime Minister’s Initiative for Short-Term Training, aimed at equipping them with advanced skills in modern farming techniques.

Federal Minister for National Food Security & Research, Rana Tanveer Hussain, chaired a high-level meeting to review the progress of the initiative, emphasizing the need for swift implementation and facilitation for students.

The Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) has approved Rs3,072.056 million for the program, with funds being released in phases through HEC.

The program will focus on nine priority areas, including mechanization, biotechnology, artificial intelligence, irrigation systems, and value chain development.

The first batch of 300 students is scheduled to depart for China in March 2025, while the selection process for the final 300 participants is currently underway.

Training will take place at Northwest Agriculture & Forestry University and Yangling Vocational & Technical College in Shaanxi Province.

This initiative is a joint effort by the Ministry of National Food Security & Research (MNFSR), the Higher Education Commission (HEC), the Pakistan Embassy in Beijing, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), and the National Information Technology Board (NITB).

A merit-based selection process has been ensured, with an additional 10% quota reserved for students from Balochistan, as per the press release issued today.

Efforts are underway to expedite the dispatch process, with authorities actively coordinating with Chinese institutions and financial bodies to streamline logistical arrangements.

The upcoming Joint Working Group meeting with China will further discuss collaboration in agricultural education and training.

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