KOICA Hands Over Pak-Korea Nutrition Centre To UAF After Seven-Year Nutrition Project

The centre, built with about $7 million in Korean government grant assistance, will continue research, professional training and nutrition education under UAF and Higher Education Commission management. FAISALABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 5th Nov, 2026) The Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) has formally handed over the Pak-Korea Nutrition Centre (PKNC) to the University of Agriculture Faisalabad (UAF) following the successful completion of a seven-year project aimed at strengthening nutrition education, research and professional training in Pakistan. The completion ceremony was attended by Korean Ambassador to Pakistan Han Sungho, KOICA Pakistan Office Director Oh Dong-gil and UAF Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Zulfiqar Ali. Launched in 2020 with approximately $7 million in grant assistance from the Korean government, the project aimed to address Pakistan's shortage of trained nutrition professionals and improve public awareness of healthy eating practices, particularly to combat child malnutrition and stunting. The three-storey centre houses lecture rooms, research laboratories equipped with advanced analytical instruments and residential facilities for trainees from remote areas. The project has additionally supported women's professional participation and the development of fortified foods and recipes suited to Pakistan's local food culture. Speaking at the ceremony, Ambassador Han Sungho appreciated the contributions of Korean and Pakistani stakeholders, expressing confidence that the centre would further strengthen bilateral cooperation. UAF Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Zulfiqar Ali thanked the Korean government for its support and pledged to ensure the nationwide dissemination of nutrition knowledge developed through the initiative. Following the completion of KOICA's assistance, the centre will continue its research, development and training activities under the management of the Higher Education Commission (HEC) and UAF, according to a university spokesperson.