PU to Establish Model Aquaponics Site to Promote Fisheries Sector

By Farzana Chaudhry, Lahore
LAHORE: The University of the Punjab is set to establish a model aquaponics site aimed at promoting the fisheries sector and creating new employment opportunities.
Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ali expressed this vision while addressing a one-day workshop on aquaponics organized by the Institute of Zoology at the university.
The workshop was attended by prominent academics and stakeholders, including Dr. Muhammad Waheed Akhtar, Secretary Punjab Chapter of the Pakistan Academy of Sciences, Dean Faculty of Life Sciences Prof. Dr. Anjum Nasim Sabri, Director Zoology Prof. Dr. Nabila Roohi, along with senior faculty members, representatives of government institutions, researchers, and industry experts.
In his address, Dr. Muhammad Ali highlighted that modern education and training at the university would enable agriculture graduates to explore entrepreneurship and advisory roles. He noted that aquaponics is playing a significant role in fish breeding and enhancing growth rates.
He further observed that Pakistan lacks controlled agriculture systems, whereas neighboring countries are generating substantial income through such practices. He stressed the importance of adopting sustainable agricultural techniques, adding that traditional flood irrigation methods still dominate local farming.
Pointing to growing water scarcity challenges, he warned that population shifts from urban to rural areas could occur if the situation worsens, and emphasized the need for measures to improve groundwater levels. He also appreciated the Pakistan Academy of Sciences for supporting the workshop.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Waheed Akhtar stated that the university would play a vital role in providing training and promoting aquaponics on a commercial scale. Meanwhile, Prof. Dr. Nabila Roohi informed participants that experts delivered specialized lectures during the workshop, focusing on practical training in various aspects of aquaponics.