LAHORE: (Tuesday, December 2, 2025): Punjab University Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Muhammad Ali has said that the world is changing rapidly and we must adapt ourselves according to modern technology and the job market. He was expressing his views while addressing a gathering to mark World Fisheries Day organized by PU’s Department of Zoology Fish Research Farm in collaboration with Supreme Aqua-Feed here on Tuesday. On this occasion, an awareness walk and a seminar on aquatic life were held, along with the exhibition of different fish species, various food stalls featuring fish-based items were also set up. These stalls showcased fish cakes, pickles, nuggets, biryani, kebabs, shawarma, koftas, sandwiches, pasta, dumplings, and other items. Students participating in the walk carried awareness posters and banners about aquatic life.
PU VC Prof Dr Muhammad Ali, DG Fisheries Rana Muhammad Saleem, Abdul Majeed Cheema, Director Institute of Zoology Dr Nabila Ruhi, In-charge Fish Research Farm Dr Noor Khan, Professor Emeritus Dr Naeem Khan, faculty members and a large number of students were present.

In his address, PU VC Prof Dr Muhammad Ali said that students should prefer starting their own businesses rather than seeking jobs after completing their degrees. He said that without women stepping forward, improvement in family and the national economy is not possible. He added that women’s participation in business in Pakistan is very low. He said that training manuals need to be revised so that students can be prepared for the international market. He emphasized that students should use their skills to become financially strong themselves rather than relying on others. He said that the events organized on World Fisheries Day were providing students with practical learning opportunities. He noted that students were interested in the fisheries sector and needed hands-on training.

Rana Muhammad Saleem said that our environment is affecting aquaculture. He said that the government is promoting the fisheries sector by taking all stakeholders on board. He stressed the urgent need for research to solve farmers’ problems. He said that MPhil and PhD research should focus on practical issues. He added that if students understand field challenges, their job after graduation will become easier. He said that foreign consultants have to be hired in the fisheries sector and that six new aqua business hubs were being established in Punjab. He noted that government projects were creating new employment and business opportunities for students.

Abdul Majeed Cheema emphasized adopting modern techniques to increase fisheries production and advised students to focus on the same. Dr Naeem Khan said that the fisheries sector has found an excellent patron in the form of Prof Dr Muhammad Ali, whose efforts were promoting fisheries research at PU. He suggested that guidelines should be provided for marine fisheries in Balochistan and Sindh.
Noor Khan said that the fish farming sector in Pakistan is growing and that, with strong government interest, modern methods are being adopted in fish farming. He said that the annual trade volume is 225 million metric tons. He added that there is significant scope for trained human resources in the fish farming sector in Pakistan and that the government should include students in fish farming schemes. The Vice Chancellor and others also visited the different fish ponds.