RAWALPINDI: Speakers at a workshop stressed the need for renewable technologies in farming systems for sustainable food production and urged farmers to adopt modern technologies.

They highlighted the crucial link between renewable energy and food security, adding that innovative and cost-effective energy solutions were vital for rural development and sustainable agricultural growth.

The workshop on “Renewable energy applications for modern sustainable agriculture” was held at Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture University Rawalpindi.

The event was organised by the Department of Energy Systems Engineering, Faculty of Agricultural Engineering & Technology, bringing together national and international experts, faculty members, researchers and students to explore the transformative role of renewable energy in advancing sustainable agriculture.

Yasmin Paracha, Director of German Academic Exchange Service (Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst) DAAD Islamabad chapter, was chief guest, while Prof Dr Qamaruz Zaman, Vice Chancellor of the university presided over the session.

Ms Paracha emphasised the importance of strengthening international academic linkages and capacity-building initiatives to equip young engineers and scientists with practical knowledge.

She said that transitioning to clean and renewable energy is not just an environmental necessity, but also an agricultural imperative. Sustainable food production depends on how effectively we integrate renewable technologies into our farming systems.

Prof Zaman highlighted the university’s commitment to advancing research-driven innovation. He said the university has always been at the forefront of addressing contemporary agricultural challenges through technology, sustainability and international collaboration.

“Our mission is to develop a new generation of professionals capable of transforming Pakistan’s agriculture through renewable energy and smart farming solutions. Such international workshops provide an excellent platform for knowledge exchange and practical learning,” he added.

The workshop featured presentations from the speakers representing various universities and research organisations. Their talks collectively focused on themes such as solar-powered irrigation, biogas and biomass utilisation, energy-efficient greenhouse systems and smart energy management in precision agriculture.

Published in Dawn, February 15th, 2026