In a timely and high-impact panel discussion, COTHM Group of Colleges, in collaboration with Highfield Qualifications, brought together leading voices from industry, academia, and regulatory bodies to address one of Pakistan’s most pressing concerns: food safety.
Held under the theme “Food Safety Challenges in Pakistan: Bridging Industry, Academia & Capacity Building,” the session transformed into a dynamic exchange of ideas, where each panelist shared critical insights and actionable perspectives on strengthening Pakistan’s food safety ecosystem.
The discussion featured an esteemed lineup including Richard Sprenger, Dr. Talat Naseer Pasha, Dr. Ijaz Ahmad, Dr. Azmat Ullah Khan, Munir Chopra, and Mohsin Shahzad.
Richard Sprenger stated,
“Food safety is not optional, it is a global responsibility. Pakistan has immense potential, but aligning with international standards through structured training and certification is the key to unlocking it.”
Dr. Talat Naseer Pasha emphasized,
“Regulatory frameworks must evolve with emerging challenges. Strong coordination between authorities and institutions is essential to ensure safe and quality food for every citizen.”
Dr. Ijaz Ahmad highlighted,
“Scientific research and laboratory testing are the backbone of food safety. Without evidence-based practices, we cannot build a reliable and trustworthy food system.”
Dr. Azmat Ullah Khan remarked,
“Academia plays a crucial role in shaping future professionals. We must focus on practical education that equips students with real-world skills in food safety and quality assurance.”
Munir Chopra noted,
“Enforcement alone is not enough. Awareness, training, and collaboration with stakeholders are equally important to build a culture of compliance.”
Mohsin Shahzad shared,
“The corporate sector must lead by example. Implementing global best practices and continuous training ensures consistency, quality, and consumer trust.”
The panel discussion underscored the urgent need for a unified approach, integrating policy, education, and industry practices to tackle food safety challenges effectively. It also reinforced the role of institutions like COTHM and Highfield in driving capacity building and professional excellence in Pakistan.
The session concluded with a shared commitment to collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement, setting a clear direction for the future of food safety in the country.
