LAHORE (24-11-25): The Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture of the University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences (UVAS) Lahore observed World Fisheries Day with the theme of “Blue Economy: Pathway to Sustainable Development”.
The activities including awareness walk, seminar and business idea competition were organized to mark the day in befitting manner at Ravi Campus Pattoki.
Dean Faculty of Animal Production and Technology Prof Dr Saima led the walk while Principal Office Ravi Campus Pattoki Prof Dr Arshad Javid, Chairman Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture Dr Muhammad Hafeez-ur-Rehman, Chief Executive Officer Zarwa Enterprises Minahl Yousaf, Andleeb Kamal from Dhabeji Aquafood and a number of fisheries professionals from public & private organizations, stakeholders, faculty members and students participated.
While addressing the audience in the seminars, Prof Dr Saima said that fisheries and aquaculture playing a remarkable role in national economy and food security. She emphasized the importance of empowering women in aquaculture.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Muhammad Hafeez-ur-Rehman said that Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture established state-of-the-art Model Fish Processing and Value Addition Facilities to provide hands-on training and develop practical skills among students and professionals. He said this initiative plays a vital role in enhancing resource utilization, minimizing waste and promoting sustainable development in the fisheries sector by converting processing waste into high-value products.
Ms Minahil Yousaf emphasized the critical role of women in the aquaculture sector. She stated that women must be empowered and encouraged to start their own businesses in aquaculture so they can contribute to economic growth and become self-sufficient. Ms Andleeb emphasized the importance of modern shrimp culture operations being practiced in Karachi. She highlighted key aspects such as production systems, feed management and overall business dynamics in the shrimp farming industry. She also appreciated the performance of UVAS graduates working at their farms, practical skills, technical knowledge and an entrepreneurial mindset that significantly contribute to the success of shrimp and fish culture operations.
At the end of seminar Prof Dr Saima along with Prof Dr Arshad Javid and Dr Muhammad Hafeez-ur-Rehman presented the shield to the guest and distributed the certificate among the winners of business ideas competition.
