Staff Reporter
Peshawar: The , through its Office of Research, Innovation and Commercialization (ORIC), in collaboration with the Department of Plant Pathology and Al Furriyaat, organized a one-day training workshop and expo on mushroom cultivation titled “Practical Mushroom Farming, Value Addition & Commercialization: Fungi Fiesta, Mushroom & Byproduct Expo 2026.”
The event was inaugurated by Vice Chancellor , who formally opened the expo by cutting the ribbon. On the occasion, resource person Muhammad Zeeshan briefed the Vice Chancellor and participants about the various mushroom stalls and innovative products displayed.
Addressing the participants, Prof. Dr. Sarzamin Khan highlighted the significance of such training workshops in equipping students with practical knowledge and entrepreneurial skills. He stressed the nutritional, medicinal, pharmaceutical, and commercial value of mushroom cultivation, urging graduates to adopt it as a viable business opportunity. He also pointed out the role of mushrooms in enhancing food security and mitigating climate change, adding that universities must go beyond awarding degrees and focus on developing self-reliant and skilled individuals.
Director ORIC and Chairman Department of Plant Pathology also addressed the gathering. They elaborated on the importance of mushroom cultivation in tackling food insecurity, overcoming nutritional deficiencies, and addressing climate challenges. They further discussed its medicinal properties, including its potential role in preventing certain types of cancer.
During the workshop, Muhammad Zeeshan and other experts conducted detailed technical sessions on mushroom production technology. These sessions covered nutrition, medicinal and pharmaceutical uses, business prospects, and culinary applications. Participants were also provided hands-on training in mushroom cultivation techniques and substrate preparation.
The workshop was attended by a large number of academics, researchers, and students, including Prof. Dr. Iqbal Munir, Dr. Sartaj Alam, Dr. Shahen Shah, Additional Directors ORIC Dr. Nazir Ahmad, Dr. Mudassir Iqbal, Dr. Majid Sohail Hashmi, Dr. Rafiullah, and Dr. Ibadullah. Representatives from , , , , and were also present, along with farmers, extension workers, and industry representatives.
The event concluded with a strong message on promoting sustainable agriculture, innovation, and entrepreneurship through mushroom farming in the region.
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