08/09/2026
Strengthening Academia–Industry Collaboration for a Safe Dairy Future
A significant milestone was achieved today as the Pakistan Dairy Association (PDA) and the University of Okara (UO) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen academia–industry collaboration and advance initiatives focused on safe dairy nutrition, food safety awareness, research, technical learning and professional development.
The MoU was signed by Dr. Shehzad Amin, CEO, Pakistan Dairy Association, and Prof. Dr. Sajjad Mubin, Vice Chancellor, University of Okara, marking an important step toward creating stronger connections between academic knowledge and the practical needs of Pakistan’s dairy industry.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Shehzad Amin, CEO PDA, emphasized the importance of bridging the gap between academia and industry and engaging young professionals in the national conversation on food safety and nutrition. He highlighted that greater awareness and knowledge are essential to enable consumers and future food professionals to make informed decisions about safe and quality food.
Prof. Dr. Sajjad Mubin, Vice Chancellor, University of Okara, highlighted the importance of food safety, professional ethics and quality standards in the food sector. He appreciated the collaboration with PDA, noting that it would provide students with valuable professional exposure and strengthen the connection between academic learning and practical industry requirements.
Following the MoU signing, PDA, in collaboration with the Department of Food Science & Technology, University of Okara, conducted a technical awareness session on “Safe Dairy Nutrition,” attended by approximately 500 students and faculty members.
During the session, Dr. Muhammad Zubair Ahmed, Manager Operations, PDA, highlighted Okara’s longstanding connection with the dairy sector and its significant potential for dairy development. He encouraged students to explore opportunities in dairy entrepreneurship, innovation and modern technologies, while emphasizing the importance of the dairy sector for health, growth and livelihoods.
Somal Babar Khan, Assistant Manager Quality Assurance, PDA, delivered a technical presentation on safe dairy practices, highlighting the nutritional importance of dairy consumption, milk quality and safety, and the need to promote safe and quality-assured dairy through greater awareness and responsible food practices.
MS scholar, Ieman Asif, said religious teachings should also be kept in view at every stage of food production, processing and consumption. She stressed that awareness and education were essential for improving food processing practices.
The successful collaboration reflects PDA’s continued commitment to building strong academia–industry linkages, empowering future food professionals and advancing a culture of safe dairy consumption across Pakistan.
Together, we are taking meaningful steps toward a healthier generation and a safer dairy future.
Safe Milk, Safe Nation
Mehfooz Khuraak, Sab Ka Haq. 🥛🇵🇰