SAU proposes paid FAO internships for students

HYDERABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 15th Jun, 2026) The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations and Sindh Agriculture University (SAU), Tandojam, have agreed to expand cooperation in climate-resilient agriculture, food security and youth capacity building, with discussions also focusing on a proposed paid internship program for students and the development of a joint Expression of Interest (EOI) for future collaborative projects.

The understanding was reached during a meeting between FAO Representative in Pakistan James Robert Okoth and SAU Vice Chancellor Engr Prof Dr Altaf Ali Siyal, who reviewed opportunities for strengthening institutional linkages to address the growing challenges posed by climate change and food insecurity in Sindh.

Speaking on the occasion, Prof Altaf Siyal highlighted FAO’s longstanding support for the university’s research and capacity-building programs and proposed the introduction of a paid internship program for SAU students within FAO. He said the initiative would provide young graduates with practical exposure to sustainable agriculture, climate-resilient crop production and food security interventions.

He said collaborative projects between the two institutions could help strengthen local capacities to mitigate the adverse impacts of climate variability on agriculture and rural livelihoods, while equipping future agricultural professionals with hands-on experience.

Mr James Okoth appreciated SAU’s contribution to agricultural education and research, noting that the university played a significant role in promoting sustainable food systems in Sindh. He encouraged the university to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) for joint programs and observed that enhanced institutional collaboration could generate innovative solutions to climate-related risks affecting agriculture and food supply chains.

Prof Dr Muhammad Ismail Kumbhar said research and training efforts should focus on strengthening farmers’ adaptive capacity, improving crop resilience and ensuring food security at the community level. He added that evidence-based interventions and climate-smart agriculture practices were essential for safeguarding agricultural productivity while maintaining environmental sustainability.

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