The Department of Plant Sciences at Karakoram International University (KIU), in collaboration with the Pakistan Agricultural Research Center (PARC) Jaghloot, organized a tree plantation ceremony to promote environmental sustainability and agricultural research.

According to the KIU Public Relations Office, the plantation drive was held in the garden located in front of the Department of Plant Sciences, where 50 olive (Olea) saplings provided by PARC Jaghloot were planted following proper scientific procedures. Additional olive trees were also planted in the Botanical Garden at the Engineering Campus.

The ceremony was chaired by Dr. Qamar Abbas, Head of the Department of Plant Sciences, who highlighted the importance of olive cultivation in the region. He stated that the climatic and geographical conditions of Gilgit-Baltistan are highly suitable for olive farming, making it a promising crop for both research and economic development.

Participants emphasized that olive trees play a vital role not only in economic uplift and agricultural development but also in maintaining environmental balance and ecological sustainability. The initiative is expected to encourage local farmers and promote olive cultivation in the region.

The activity reflects KIU’s broader vision of the Vice Chancellor to transform academic institutions into centers of agricultural innovation, environmental awareness, and practical learning. Future expansion of plantation activities is also planned to further develop the area into a living research and teaching model.