PESHAWAR - The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Food Safety and Halal Food Authority, in collaboration with Agriculture University Peshawar, organized an event to mark World Food Day, themed “Better Food for a Better Life and Better Future.”
The event saw the participation of students, faculty members, and officials, including Provincial Minister for Food Zahir Shah Toru, Director General Halal Food Authority Wasif Saeed, and Pro Vice-Chancellor Agriculture University Dr Daud Jan.
Minister for Food Zahir Shah Toru, speaking as the chief guest, highlighted the challenges of hunger, malnutrition, food safety, and the impacts of climate change on agriculture. He pointed out that 38% of children under five in Pakistan suffer from malnutrition and stunted growth, while 20% of the population faces food insecurity.
“These figures are not just statistics but a picture of a challenging future,” said Toru. He emphasized the need to strengthen the food system through modern agricultural technologies, increase crop production, and ensure access to safe and nutritious food. He also acknowledged the role of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Food Authority in ensuring the availability of safe and quality food.
Toru further noted the roles of Agriculture University and the provincial agricultural research system in addressing these challenges. He stressed the importance of research into drought-resistant crops, efficient water usage, and sustainable agricultural practices to secure food in the face of environmental challenges.
The minister also emphasized the need to remove socio-economic barriers to food access by implementing social protection programs and improving market infrastructure. Speakers at the event raised awareness among students about World Food Day’s importance and encouraged them to contribute to addressing agricultural and food security issues.