A World Bank delegation led by Dr. Abdullah Sethar met Vice-Chancellor of the University of Sindh Professor Dr. Khalil ur Rehman Khoumbati on Wednesday to discuss the establishment of a fisheries aquaculture laboratory at the varsity.

The laboratory being set up under the World Bank’s PIU SLADP/LIV AQUA program will focus on soil and water testing, aquatic nutrition, pathology and genetics. It aims to boost aquaculture research, foster innovation and strengthen Pakistan’s fisheries sector.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Sethar said the World Bank would provide modern equipment and instruments to ensure international standards in research and development. The initiative is also expected to create employment opportunities through training programs, short courses and diplomas.

The meeting was attended by World Bank technical experts Dr. Sumera and Mr. Mueed. From the university, Director ORIC Professor Dr. Farhat Noreen, Dean Faculty of Natural Sciences Professor Dr. Naheed Kaka, Chairman of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences Professor Dr. Khalid Hussain Lashari, Dr. Punhal Khan Lashari and Dr. Muhammad Younis Laghari participated.

Vice-Chancellor Khoumbati nominated Dr. Muhammad Younis Laghari as the focal person for the program. The draft of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) is under preparation, with a signing ceremony to follow soon.

The partnership is seen as a major step toward developing aquaculture in Pakistan, making the University of Sindh a hub for research, innovation and industry growth in the sector.