International Workshop on Project Proposal Development Commenced at PMAS-AAUR

A three-day International Workshop on “Capacity Building in Project Proposal Development for Innovative Research & Technology Development” commenced at Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture University Rawalpindi (PMAS-AAUR), with an emphasis on strengthening the capacity of researchers and faculty members to develop high-quality, competitive and impactful research and development proposals. The workshop has been organized by the Institute of Soil & Environmental Sciences (IS&ES), PMAS-AAUR under the patronage of Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Qamar-uz-Zaman while the Chairman Higher Education Commission (HEC) Prof. Dr. Niaz Ahmad Akhtar (S.I.) graced the inaugural ceremony as the Chief Guest.

Addressing the gathering, Chairman HEC Prof. Dr. Niaz Ahmad Akhtar (S.I.) highlighted the critical importance of well-structured project proposals in securing research and development funding from national and international donor agencies. He emphasized that researchers must focus their research on pressing social issues and develop innovative, evidence-based solutions to address the challenges faced by society. He stressed that research should not remain confined to academic publications but should contribute meaningfully to solving real-world problems and improving the quality of life of the people.

Speaking on the occasion, Vice Chancellor PMAS-AAUR Prof. Dr. Qamar-uz-Zaman said that universities are not merely centers of teaching and learning; rather they are expected to serve as centers of knowledge creation, innovation, problem-solving and societal transformation. He said that the workshop represents an important step towards developing a culture in which ethically sound and scientifically robust research ideas can be transformed into successful projects, meaningful innovations and practical solutions. He expressed hope that the participating researchers would benefit from the expertise of national and international specialists.

Director Institute of Soil & Environmental Sciences and Convener of the International Workshop Prof. Dr. Azeem Khalid informed that the workshop is being conducted in hybrid mode that comprises 5 technical sessions and features an impressive panel of 14 national and international experts with diverse academic, research and professional experience.