Karachi: The Employers Federation of Pakistan (EFP), in collaboration with the International Labour Organization (ILO), has initiated a series of training sessions aimed at enhancing cotton productivity in the districts of Sukkur and Khairpur. These sessions are part of the “RISE for Impact: FPRW in the Cotton Supply Chain Project” and focus on introducing innovative practices to small-scale farmers and landlords.

According to a statement by Employers’ Federation of Pakistan, the initiative seeks to improve yields and create sustainable incomes for cotton farmers by providing practical farming techniques and resource-saving strategies. Syed Abaan, Project Coordinator at EFP, stressed the significance of improving working conditions and productivity to foster fair business practices within cotton-growing communities.

Ijaz Ahmed, National Project Coordinator at ILO, highlighted the importance of establishing farmers’ associations to promote a sustainable cotton supply chain. He encouraged social dialogue as a means to improve working conditions and motivate stakeholders to support business compliance.

Gulfam Nabi, a consultant involved in the project, discussed the Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work, focusing on freedom of association, eliminating forced labor, abolishing child labor, promoting equal employment opportunities, and ensuring safe workplaces.

Consultant Meer Muhammad Kolachi outlined factors essential for enhancing cotton productivity, including climate, soil requirements, and pest management. He emphasized innovative approaches to cost reduction and the challenges small-scale farmers face, such as accessing quality seeds and equipment.

Participants of the training sessions identified resource pooling and the formation of associations as crucial steps towards reducing costs and improving access to financing and machinery, thereby ensuring long-term sustainability of the cotton supply chain in Pakistan.