The Abdul Wali Khan University, Mardan (AWKUM) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Chenshan Botanical Garden in Shanghai to strengthen academic and research collaboration, promote joint initiatives, and enhance mutual learning opportunities in agriculture and botanical sciences. According to a report carried by Gwadar Pro on Sunday, the MoU was signed by Dr. Fazal Said, an Associate Professor in the Department of Agriculture at AWKUM. He is currently attending the International Training Program on Botanical Garden Management and Development, being held in Shanghai from Sept. 1-20, 2025.

Said, one of two agricultural experts from Pakistan attending the training, told Gwadar Pro on Friday that the program brings together experts and academics from across the globe to exchange knowledge and best practices in botanical garden management, sustainable development, and conservation. The program is sponsored by the Chenshan Botanical Garden and the International Association of Botanical Gardens. He said the main purpose of the training is to strengthen and develop joint research and collaboration among participating countries.

According to Said, the MoU covers technical assistance from the Chinese institution, student and faculty exchanges, and the participation of AWKUM faculty in seminars, symposiums, and other related events in China. He added that AWKUM plans to develop a botanical garden on a large area of land owned by the university. He intends to seek technical and financial support for the project from the Chinese institution during his stay in Shanghai, the report added.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP) — Pak-China