The Department of Plant Breeding & Genetics at Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture University Rawalpindi (PMAS-AAUR) successfully organized the Seed to Startup 2025 Entrepreneurship Expo on Tuesday. The event centered around the theme “Transforming Research into Agribusiness: Entrepreneurship in Plant Breeding, Genetics & Seed Technology,” bringing together a diverse group of students, researchers, policymakers, agri- startups, and industry stakeholders.

Chief Guest MPA Punjab Malik Iftikhar Ahmed inaugurated the expo, which was attended by PMAS-AAUR Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Qamar-uz-Zaman along with the Registrar, Deans, Directors, faculty members, and a large number of students. Keynote addresses were delivered by Mr. Muhammad Azam Khan, Director General of the Federal Seed Certification & Registration Department, and Mr. Aamir Iqbal from Bayer Pvt. Ltd.

In his address, MPA Malik Iftikhar Ahmed emphasized the importance of transferring research-based knowledge to the farming community. He said that farmers look toward research institutions for innovative ideas and practical solutions. Events like this play a vital role in disseminating information and making resources more accessible to farmers. He added that the expo also opens internship and training opportunities for students.

Speaking on the occasion, Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Qamar-uz-Zaman highlighted the central role of seed quality and modern technologies in ensuring food security. He said that quality seed is the foundation for high productivity. Research institutions and industry must work hand-in-hand to commercialize innovations and ensure farmers benefit from new technologies. Climate change is posing serious challenges, and adopting hybrid varieties and modern agricultural practices is essential. He also commends the Department of Plant Breeding & Genetics for organizing this highly informative and impactful expo.

The Entrepreneurship Expo also includes Panel Discussions, Exhibition, Awareness Seminar and Poster Presentation.