Agri-Business Mela Showcases Women’s Power, Farmers’ Strength, and Innovation at SALU Khairpur .

Agri-Business Mela Showcases Women’s Power, Farmers’ Strength, and Innovation at SALU Khairpur .
Press Release
Dated: 27-10-2025
The Shah Abdul Latif University (SALU) Khairpur was abuzz with activity during the Agri Business and Linkage Building Mela, a vibrant exhibition aimed at promoting the agricultural, Livestock and artisanal potential of Sindh.
The event was inaugurated by the Vice-Chancellor, Meritorious Professor Dr. Yousuf Khushk, who emphasized the university's commitment to social service alongside academic excellence.
The Mela, featuring stalls on agriculture, livestock, and handicrafts, served as a platform for farmers, artisans, and entrepreneurs to showcase their products and forge new market linkages.
A major attraction was the display of Kamori goats, a native breed of Sindh valued between Rs. 100,000 to a staggering 30 lakh rupees. The event also featured a unique breed of the black francolin (Teetar) and an indigenous dates stall, highlighting the region's biodiversity.
A key focus of the Mela was on value addition and innovation. A stall demonstrating the use of banana waste, typically discarded, drew significant attention. Through a live machine demonstration, visitors saw how banana waste is transformed into threads and pulps which can be used for ropes, handicrafts, fertilizer, and plants.
"Banana waste is like crude oil; it's a byproduct that can be used for value-added products," said Dr. Khushk, drawing a parallel to emphasize the economic potential. "There is a lack of awareness, but once it is created, more benefits will be given to all."
Announcing a major initiative, the Vice-Chancellor declared that the university, in collaboration with ministry of university & boards, would launch free skill development training. "This will not only support but also provide employment opportunities," he stated. The training will include teaching entrepreneurs how to promote their businesses on social media to reach domestic and international markets.
In his concluding remarks, VC Dr. Yousuf Khushk credited his team for the university's progress and reiterated the importance of collective effort. "We can do if we are together. This will benefit the whole society," he said.
The event also highlighted collaborative efforts. Representatives from Sachal Social Enterprise (SEP), the International Trade Centre, the European Union, and the Sindh government outlined their work in providing free soil testing, consultancy, and market access to small farmers across 20 districts in Sindh and Balochistan.
Growers and experts used the platform to voice their concerns and suggestions. Hafiz Abdul Haleem Memon and Mushtaque Ali Arijo stressed the need for better seed quality, enhanced research on beneficial and harmful insects, and widespread awareness sessions to help farmers increase yields and profits.
A representative from SEP shared success stories, noting that initiatives in banana fibre business had even earned awards and recognition in different countries.
Focusing on gender inclusion, speakers like Shaista Baloch from SEP and Karam Hussain Janwari highlighted the critical role of rural women. "Women in rural areas are working more and earning less. This organization is supporting them to earn more than earlier because of their skills," said Ms. Baloch.
Dr. Faheem Jatoi, the Plantation Officer at the Center for Biodiversity, welcomed all the distinguished guests, saying, "Thank you for your gracious presence." We are especially honored by the presence of our Vice Chancellor and our esteemed Chief Guest. Your support inspires us all."
The event was attended by a host of dignitaries, including Pro-Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Wahid Bux Jatoi, Sachal Social Enterprise CEO Ghulam Qaim Bhutto, Madam Shahnaz Rahat Kapadia, Director Marketing Muhammad Qasim Bhutto, and many others, marking a significant step towards strengthening the agri-business ecosystem in the region.
Dr Sahib Oad
Media Studies
SALU Khairpur