PAU VC inspires future agriculturalists at College of Agriculture, Ballowal Saunkhri

Ludhiana, February 8, 2024: In a dynamic and engaging interactive session, the Vice-Chancellor of Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Dr. Satbir Singh Gosal, and university officers stirred the spirits of students at the College of Agriculture, Ballowal Saunkhri, urging them to become key players in shaping the future of Punjab's agriculture. The visit to the College included an assessment of the ongoing developments in new buildings, farm areas, and infrastructure. The Vice-Chancellor also released the quarterly e-magazine of the College and inaugurated its Counselling Cell.

In his remarks, Dr. Gosal delved into the vibrant canvas of Punjab's agricultural heritage. Encouraging students to view their education as a catalyst for progress and prosperity, he accentuated the pivotal role of hard work. Dr. Gosal inspired the students to envision themselves as pioneers of positive change, drawing inspiration from Punjab's historic contribution to India's food independence.

Recalling the remarkable journey of Punjab Agricultural University, Dr. Gosal narrated its instrumental role in propelling India's agricultural productivity. The release of 940 crop varieties and hybrids, coupled with recent recognition as the top state agricultural university in India's National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) 2023, showcased PAU's unshakeable commitment to scientific breakthroughs and transformative innovations.

Spotlighting the university's 60-year history, Dr. Gosal shared the achievements of PAU alumni who have earned prestigious national and international honours. Motivating the students to emulate this legacy, he exhorted them to be the flagbearers of progress in the state.

While welcoming the gathering, Dr. Manmohanjit Singh, Dean of the College of Agriculture, provided a comprehensive overview of the institution. Established in 2021, it is the youngest among PAU's six constituent colleges. Offering a B.Sc. Agri. (Hons) 4-year degree program, the college boasts a specialized curriculum covering diverse disciplines such as Agronomy, Soil Science, Plant Breeding, and more.

Dr. Singh detailed the college's upcoming state-of-the-art facilities, including various laboratories, smart classrooms, a library with the latest e-resources, a fully Wi-Fi-enabled campus, and an excellent hostel facility. The expansive farm area of 330 acres, equipped with orchards, fruit nurseries, and implements, facilitates hands-on practical experience for students in food, horticulture, and forest crops.

Highlighting experiential learning units, a meteorological observatory, and an automatic weather station, Dr. Singh counseled the students to leverage these resources and the expertise of seasoned faculty for optimal learning and knowledge assimilation.

University officers echoed Dr. Gosal's sentiments, emphasizing the institution's commitment to empowering youth and fostering innovation in the agricultural sector. The animated interaction with students revealed their enthusiasm and pride in being part of an institution dedicated to providing top-notch education in agriculture.

The event concluded as a rallying point for students and faculty, underscoring a collective commitment to excellence, innovation, and progress in the agricultural sector.