3rd WPSA Student Symposium 2026 Held at University of Veterinary & Animal Sciences (UVAS), Swat, KPK
World’s Poultry Science Association (WPSA) Pakistan – North Zone
The 3rd WPSA Student Symposium 2026 was successfully organized by the World’s Poultry Science Association (WPSA) Pakistan Branch – North Zone, in collaboration with the University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences (UVAS), Swat, on 11 June 2026. The symposium brought together students, academicians, researchers, poultry professionals, and industry leaders from across Pakistan for a day dedicated to scientific learning, professional networking, leadership development, and industry–academia collaboration.
Hosted by UVAS Swat and generously sponsored by HiVet Animal Health Business Pakistan and SINDER Animal Health China, the event served as an important platform to strengthen the connection between academic institutions and Pakistan’s rapidly growing poultry industry. The symposium aimed to inspire future veterinarians and poultry scientists while providing valuable insights into emerging industry trends, research opportunities, and career pathways.
A Strong Beginning
The event commenced with participant registration coordinated by Muhammad Zee Waqar, WPSA Office Coordinator, as students and delegates from universities and institutions across Pakistan gathered at the UVAS Swat campus. The inaugural session opened with a warm welcome from Prof. Dr. Obaid Ullah, Head of the Faculty of Veterinary Sciences at UVAS Swat, who emphasized the importance of scientific education, practical exposure, and close collaboration between academia and industry to prepare future professionals for the evolving poultry sector.
Throughout the opening session, distinguished guests highlighted the critical role of poultry science in ensuring food security, supporting rural livelihoods, and contributing to Pakistan’s agricultural economy. Their remarks underscored the growing importance of innovation, research, and knowledge exchange in sustaining the country’s poultry industry.
2. International Webinar 2026 Highlights Future Trends in Poultry Education, Employment, and Research
The Faculty of Animal Science, Universitas Jambi, in collaboration with the World’s Poultry Science Association (WPSA) – Indonesian Branch, South Sumatra Regional Branch, successfully held the International Webinar 2026 with the theme “Trends for the Future of Poultry: Education, Employment, and Research.” The webinar was conducted online via Zoom Meeting on Monday, May 4, 2026, from 08:00 AM to 04:00 PM (UTC+7). The event brought together academics, researchers, professionals, and poultry industry stakeholders to discuss future opportunities and challenges in the global poultry sector.
The program opened with welcome speeches from Prof. Dr. Helmi, S.H., M.H., Rector of Universitas Jambi; Prof. Dr. Ir. Hj. Nurhayati, M.Sc.Agr., Dean of the Faculty of Animal Science, Universitas Jambi; and Dr. Maria Ulfah, S.Pt., M.Sc.Agr., President of WPSA Indonesian Branch.
Several distinguished invited speakers shared their expertise during the webinar, including Prof. Ir. Yusrizal, M.Sc., Ph.D., Dr. Vincent Guyonnet, Dr. Ir. Hary Suhada, S.Pt., M.P., IPU, and Muhammad Umar, DVM, M.Sc. The session was moderated by Ir. Wiwaha Anas S., M.Sc., Ph.D., lecturer at the Faculty of Animal Science, Universitas Jambi.
The webinar discussed the important role of education, employment development, and research innovation in supporting sustainable poultry production. It also emphasized the need for stronger collaboration between universities, research institutions, government, and industry to prepare future human resources and improve competitiveness in the poultry sector. Through this international forum, participants gained valuable insights into global poultry trends and strategies to strengthen the contribution of science and innovation to the future of the poultry industry.
Technical Session Highlights
The technical session featured a series of presentations delivered by renowned experts from academia and industry. Dr. Asif Masood Rana, CEO of HiVet Animal Health Business Pakistan, presented an insightful lecture on vaccination programs and disease prevention strategies in commercial poultry production. He highlighted HiVet’s continued contribution to improving poultry health and productivity across Pakistan.
Dr. Abdul Khalique Samoon discussed the surveillance and monitoring of respiratory pathogens in poultry, explaining modern diagnostic approaches while emphasizing the role of SINDER Animal Health China in supporting disease control initiatives and improving flock health management.
Sharing the latest developments within Pakistan’s poultry sector, Dr. Farhan Farooq, Secretary General of WPSA Pakistan, encouraged students to remain engaged with emerging technologies, scientific research, and professional opportunities. He motivated participants to prepare themselves as future leaders capable of driving innovation within the industry.
The audience also benefited from an informative presentation by Dr. Khurram Shahbaz, who introduced the activities and achievements of the Soy Excellence Center. His presentation highlighted the importance of evidence-based nutrition, capacity building, and skill development programs for future poultry professionals.
Dr. Saeed Ahmad Khan spoke about the development and future prospects of commercial poultry farming in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, emphasizing the significant opportunities available for entrepreneurs and young professionals in the region.
Leadership development formed another important component of the symposium, with Mr. Waqar Alam, President of WPSA Pakistan (South Zone), delivering an inspiring presentation on professional networking, leadership, and active participation in professional organizations. He encouraged students to become actively involved in initiatives that promote poultry science and industry development.
One of the keynote presentations of the symposium was delivered by Dr. Nasir Mukhtar, Associate Professor at the Institute of Animal Sciences, PMAS-Arid Agriculture University Rawalpindi, and Director R&D of WPSA Pakistan. His presentation, titled “The Research-to-Market Pathway: Bridging Science and Business,” demonstrated how scientific innovations can be successfully translated into commercially viable products and services. He encouraged students to develop entrepreneurial thinking and explore opportunities beyond traditional career pathways.
The technical session concluded with a presentation by Dr. Khalid Farooq, who discussed the rapid growth of the poultry industry in the Swat region. He highlighted local investment opportunities and explained how poultry farming can contribute significantly to regional economic development.
Establishment of the UVAS Swat Poultry Society
A major milestone of the symposium was the formal establishment of the UVAS Swat Poultry Society. To commemorate this important occasion, an oath-taking ceremony was conducted by Dr. Nasir Mukhtar, during which the newly elected office bearers pledged to uphold the society’s objectives, promote scientific learning, encourage professional development, and contribute positively to the advancement of poultry science.
The establishment of the society reflects WPSA Pakistan’s ongoing commitment to empowering students, promoting leadership, and creating long-term opportunities for scientific and professional engagement.
Historic MoU Signed Between WPSA Pakistan and UVAS Swat
Another landmark achievement of the symposium was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between WPSA Pakistan and UVAS Swat. The agreement was formally signed by Dr. Farhan Farooq, Secretary General of WPSA Pakistan, and Dr. Khalid Khan, Additional Registrar of UVAS Swat.
The MoU establishes a framework for future cooperation in student development, research collaboration, technical training, internships, professional networking, and industry engagement. This partnership represents an important step toward strengthening poultry education, promoting knowledge exchange, and supporting collaborative research initiatives that will benefit both students and the poultry industry.
Recognition and Appreciation
The organizing committee expressed sincere appreciation to all speakers, participants, sponsors, faculty members, and volunteers whose dedication contributed to the success of the symposium. Special recognition was extended to Dr. Nasir Mukhtar for his technical leadership and his role in conducting the Poultry Society oath-taking ceremony; Muhammad Zee Waqar for his outstanding coordination and management of the event; Dr. Farhan Farooq for his exceptional organizational leadership; Dr. Khurram Adrian Shah for his valuable support in organizing the symposium; Mr. Abdullah for his assistance with event arrangements; Irtaza Nasir for his contribution to event management and student engagement; and Dr. Junaid Haider for his support and coordination throughout the event.
Special appreciation was also conveyed to Dr. Asif Masood Rana, CEO of HiVet Animal Health Business Pakistan, for his continued commitment to poultry science education and industry–academia collaboration. The organizing committee further acknowledged the generous sponsorship provided by HiVet Animal Health Business Pakistan and SINDER Animal Health China, whose support played a vital role in the success of the symposium.
WPSA Welcome Dinner – 10 June 2026
On 10 June 2026, a special WPSA Welcome Dinner was hosted at Burj-ul-Swat, Swat, in honor of the distinguished speakers, university faculty members, and invited guests participating in the symposium. The dinner provided an excellent opportunity for professional networking, meaningful discussions, and strengthening collaboration between academia and the poultry industry.
The event was chaired by Dr. Farhan Farooq, Secretary General of WPSA Pakistan, together with Dr. Akbar Ali, Life Member of WPSA Pakistan (Swat). They warmly welcomed the guests and expressed their appreciation for everyone’s contribution to advancing poultry science and education in Pakistan. The evening reflected the spirit of friendship, collaboration, and professional excellence that continues to strengthen the mission of WPSA Pakistan.
On behalf of Dr. Farhan Farooq, heartfelt appreciation was extended to Prof. Dr. Shakeeb Ullah, Vice Chancellor of UVAS Swat, for hosting and supporting this important academic event. The organizing committee also acknowledged the visionary leadership of Mian Sohaib Javaid, President of WPSA Pakistan, whose continued commitment to student development and professional excellence has strengthened WPSA activities throughout the country.
Appreciation was further extended to Mr. Waqar Alam, President of WPSA Pakistan (South Zone), and Mr. Haseeb Akram, President of WPSA Pakistan (North Zone), for their active support in promoting the objectives of WPSA among students and young professionals. The committee also recognized the valuable contributions of Dr. Alamdar Hussain Malik, Prof. Dr. Obaid Ullah, Dr. Khalid Khan, Dr. Saeed Ahmad Khan, Dr. Akbar Ali, Dr. Khalid Farooq, and Dr. Ayesha Humayon, whose dedication and guidance played a pivotal role in making the symposium a highly successful and memorable event.
Looking Ahead
The 3rd WPSA Student Symposium 2026 successfully achieved its objectives of promoting scientific interaction, strengthening industry–academia partnerships, and inspiring future leaders in poultry science. The establishment of the UVAS Swat Poultry Society and the signing of the MoU between WPSA Pakistan and UVAS Swat created a strong foundation for future collaboration in education, research, student engagement, and professional development.
As the symposium concluded, participants left with renewed enthusiasm, valuable scientific knowledge, and stronger professional networks. The event reaffirmed WPSA Pakistan’s commitment to advancing poultry science education, research, innovation, and sustainable industry growth throughout the country, while serving as another important milestone in developing the next generation of leaders for Pakistan’s poultry sector.