Lahore: The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences (UVAS) launched Pakistan’s World Food Day 2026 campaign, emphasizing the need for innovation, research, and collaboration to enhance the country’s food systems. The event, held at UVAS Lahore, focused on making food systems more productive, nutritious, and resilient.

According to Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, the event, under the theme “Innovate Today. Nourish Tomorrow,” gathered representatives from the United Nations, academia, students, and various stakeholders. They discussed the challenges and opportunities for Pakistan’s food systems. The program included a World Food Day awareness walk, a plantation activity, a ceremony, and a panel discussion on transforming the nation’s food systems through innovation.

FAO Pakistan Officer-in-Charge James Okoth highlighted the role of innovation in improving food security and nutrition. He noted that innovation involves not only technology but also better methods for food production, loss reduction, nutrition improvement, and community resilience. Okoth stressed the importance of partnerships among government, academia, development partners, farmers, and youth in transforming food systems.

UVAS Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Masood Rabbani stated that universities are responsible for converting research and knowledge into practical solutions. He emphasized the role of educational institutions in developing the knowledge, skills, and innovations needed for healthier, sustainable, and resilient food systems.

The panel included representatives from the FAO, the World Food Programme, academia, and youth. The event was attended by FAO Head of Programme Ms. Amina Bajwa, Head of Provincial Office World Food Program Punjab Dr Amara Khan, nutritionists from the public and private sectors, faculty members, and over 250 students from UVAS and partner institutions.

The World Food Day campaign is globally celebrated on October 16, marking the founding of the FAO in 1945. In Pakistan, the 2026 campaign aims to raise awareness and promote action towards sustainable food production, healthy diets, food waste reduction, and farmer support.