Pakistan Council for Science & Technology (PCST) as part of the series of national workshop on "Organic Food and Health: Avenues of Innovation and Entrepreneurship" organized the second workshop at the University of Management and Technology, Lahore. Rana Tanveer Hussain, Federal Minister for Science and Technology, graced the inaugural ceremony as the Chief Guest. Professor Dr. Talat Naseer Pasha, VC University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences (UVAS), Lahore and Mr. Muhammad Ashraf Additional Secretary, Ministry for Science and Technology were also present on the occasion as a guests of honor. The ceremony was attended by a number of dignitaries including Heads of R&D organizations, Vice Chancellors of varied universities, eminent scientists, representatives of private sector/industry, civil society and others.

While addressing the workshop, Federal Minister appreciated the role of PCST in organizing this workshop and providing a platform to the participants for creating awareness about this important topic, discussing the challenges faced and to explore the possible solutions and availing opportunities. He assured that MoST is committed to support every effort in promotion of scientific awareness in the country that would improve health as well as economic and social prosperity of present an next generations.

Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Dr. Anwar-ul-Hassan Gilani, Chairman, Pakistan Council for Science and Technology, expressed his sincere gratitude to the speakers and participants in the workshop from all over the country. In his welcome address, Prof. Gilani welcomed the participants and commented that the workshop provided the platform to bring together scientists,, entrepreneurs, organic farmers and members of civil society to share ideas and knowledge about various aspects of organic food in relation to health and economic prosperity, potential funding opportunities and way forward for rapid growth of organic food sector. He also shared his research experience on functional foods as effective and safe remedy for chronic diseases, like diabetes, cancer and Heart Disease. in terms of scope of organic farming.

Mr. Abid H.K. Shirwani, D.G., University of Management and Technology stressed up on the importance of creating awareness regarding food security and health, highlighting organic farming, as an important area with huge potential of employment and revenue generation through export.

Prof. Dr Talat Naseer Pasha, VC University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore said that organic food is healthier and has advantages over non-organic food. Therefore, an increase can be seen in the demand for organic food over the past few years.

Considering the significance of the topic for health and improving the quality of life of common people by creating awareness about organic food and opportunities of entrepreneurship, the workshop attracted a large number of audiences from different walks of life. The response for participation in this workshop was very encouraging and participants came to attend the workshop from all over the country.