Shah Abdul Latif University, Khairpur, in collaboration with the Pakistan Maritime Museum, Karachi, recently hosted The Premier National Dates Exhibition and Family Festival. The event, inaugurated by Vice Chancellor Meritorious Professor Dr. Muhammad Yousuf Khushk, attracted significant international attention, drawing diplomats from Qatar, Oman, the UAE, Iran, Turkey, Sri Lanka, Korea, and Bangladesh.

Universities from across Pakistan, including Gomal University, Ghazi University, Lasbella University of Agriculture and Marine Sciences, and the Date Palm Research Station in Turbat, showcased an impressive range of date palm varieties and products, highlighting the latest advancements in agricultural research and innovation.

Prominent figures such as the Chairman of the Pakistan Agricultural Research Council, the Vice Chancellor of Begum Nusrat Bhutto Women University, Sukkur, and Mr. M. Rafique Buriro, Secretary of Agriculture, Government of Sindh, were also present. Over the two-day event, date growers and researchers from Sindh, Balochistan, Punjab, and KPK displayed their products, focusing on quality and value addition.

Speaking on the importance of the event, Vice Chancellor Dr. Muhammad Yousuf Khushk emphasized the critical role that Sindh plays in the global date trade. "Sindh, with its rich agricultural heritage, stands as a cornerstone in the global date industry. Our province’s high-quality dates are not only a source of pride for our local farmers but also a major contributor to Pakistan’s agricultural exports," he stated.

Dr. Khushk further highlighted that Sindh’s unique climate and fertile soil enable the cultivation of premium date varieties, which are in high demand worldwide, particularly in the Middle East and Europe. "The global demand for dates is on the rise, driven by their nutritional value and cultural importance. Sindh is well-positioned to meet this demand, strengthening its role as a key player in the international market," he added.

He also pointed to ongoing government efforts to enhance agricultural practices and infrastructure in the region, which are crucial for boosting both the quality and quantity of date production. "These initiatives will increase export volumes and generate significant revenue for the country," Dr. Khushk noted.

 Spokesperson for Shah Abdul Latif University, Khairpur, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that the success of the exhibition was a testament to the dedicated efforts of Dr. Ameer Ahmed Mirbahar, Director of the Date Palm Research Institute, and Mr. Sarfraz Ali Korejo, along with the strong support of the Khairpur business community. "The visionary leadership and diligent supervision of Vice Chancellor Dr. Yousuf Khushk were instrumental in ensuring the flawless execution of this prestigious event,"

**Irfan Phulpoto**  

*Spokesperson /PRO 

*Shah Abdul Latif University, Khairpur*