TANDOJAM: In significant step towards addressing pressing issue of malnutrition in Sindh, Sindh Agriculture University, Tandojam, in partnership with HOOPO, renowned Canada-based humanitarian organisation, hosted an impactful workshop titled ‘Malnutrition in Sindh and Its Solutions’ at Faculty of Crop Protection. Experts at workshop shed light on severe challenges faced by people of Sindh due to heavy rains, floods and droughts that occur annually.

These natural calamities particularly affect underprivileged, who struggle to access food and nutritious meals during such crises. Dr. Manzoor Ali Abro Dean of Faculty of Crop Protection emphasised alarming situation in Sindh, where over 2 million children and women are currently suffering from malnutrition due to economic hardships and limited resources. He pointed out that small children and pregnant women are most vulnerable.

Dr. Abro highlighted rapid progress made in launching several social welfare programs following agreement between HOOPO and Sindh Agriculture University, Tandojam. Dr. Abdul Waheed Solangi Programme Manager at Sindh Agriculture University, praised HOOPO’s positive contributions, including creating employment opportunities for students, supporting children’s education expenses and addressing other crucial issues. He shared recent inclusion of university student, Anita Lashari, in malnutrition project as part of entrepreneurship initiative. To further combat malnutrition, various programs have been introduced to enhance farmers’ capacity building and address food shortages. In initial phase, weekly packages containing meat, Moringa paratha (flatbread) and eggs are being distributed to mentally and physically weak individuals from malnourished families in rural areas of Tandojam, Mehrabpur and Ranipur. Dr. Mumtaz Ali Sahito highlighted benefits of Moringa plant, known for its rich nutritional value and positive health effects. He commended HOOPO’s initiative to include Moringa in their programme, noting that paratha made from this plant will be highly effective in combating malnutrition. Workshop was well-attended by students and faculty members, including Dr. Jamaluddin Hajano, Dr. Mehrunnisa Rais and Dr. Nazia Rais, who actively participated in discussions.