SWAT: The University of Agriculture Swat has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the University of Agriculture Faisalabad to launch a faculty exchange programme aimed at strengthening academic collaboration and professional development.

The MoU was formally signed at the University of Agriculture Faisalabad by Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Dawood Jan on behalf of the University of Agriculture Swat and Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Rao Zulfiqar Ali representing the University of Agriculture Faisalabad.

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University officials said the initiative reflects the University of Agriculture Swat’s efforts to promote national cohesion by aligning higher education institutions at the national level. The collaboration will facilitate shared knowledge, professional development, collaborative research, access to laboratories, and exposure to diverse academic environments for faculty members on a reciprocal basis.

In this regard, the University of Agriculture Swat has already signed a similar MoU with Ghazi University, with the first batch of faculty scheduled to be deputed from February 2, 2026. The university has also finalised modalities for a faculty exchange programme with Mian Nawaz Sharif University of Agriculture Multan.

According to the university, the faculty exchange programme is part of its broader strategy to enhance cooperation in agriculture, plant protection, climate-smart farming, food security and allied disciplines. The programme places particular emphasis on joint research publications, guest lectures, joint supervision of students, academic development initiatives, and the organisation of seminars, conferences, workshops and training programmes. The collaboration also aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 2030.

The initiative was approved by the statutory bodies of the University of Agriculture Swat, including the Finance and Planning Committee and the Syndicate, in January 2024. Officials said the programme was designed to equip faculty members with up-to-date knowledge and emerging trends in agriculture and related sciences, while fostering exposure to different academic cultures and climatic zones across Pakistan.

Under the approved framework, faculty exchanges will take place during summer and winter breaks. Faculty members from the University of Agriculture Swat will be placed at partner universities during winter, while faculty from participating institutions will be hosted in Swat during the summer. Participants in the exchange programme will be considered on official duty.

University authorities said the primary objectives of the programme include promoting the exchange of ideas and expertise, enhancing interdisciplinary research productivity, encouraging faculty and student mobility, strengthening national integration, and building institutional capacity through shared learning and resources.

Officials described the faculty exchange programme as a significant milestone in strengthening inter-university partnerships and advancing sustainable academic and research development across Pakistan.