KARACHI: In a major step toward improving animal and public health, the Government of Sindh and the International Centre for Chemical and Biological Sciences (ICCBS), University of Karachi, have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on controlling livestock diseases and zoonotic infections, under the globally recognized "One Health" framework.
The agreement was formalized during a meeting at ICCBS, where the Sindh Institute of Animal Health (SIAH), Karachi, represented the provincial government. The MoU was signed by Prof. Dr. Muhammad Raza Shah, Director of ICCBS, and Dr. Nazeer Hussain Kalhoro, Director General of SIAH.
Prominent scientist and former Federal Minister for Science and Technology, Prof. Dr. Atta-ur-Rahman, attended the signing ceremony along with Prof. Dr. Shahid Mansoor, Senior Advisor, and other key officials and researchers.
Key Areas of Cooperation
The collaboration aims to strengthen genome sequencing of disease-causing pathogens, particularly the Foot and Mouth Disease Virus, a critical threat to livestock. It also encompasses vaccine matching studies to evaluate and improve the efficacy of current vaccines. A major highlight of the partnership is the joint effort to develop advanced vaccines using Virus-Like Particles (VLP) technology, which promises better protection and wider coverage.
Speaking at the occasion, Prof. Dr. Raza Shah emphasized ICCBS’s technical capacity to support real-time disease surveillance through AI-based dashboards and outbreak reporting systems. He also underscored the center’s ability to conduct clinical trials for vaccines like snake antivenom and rabies, reinforcing its status as a global leader in chemical and biological research.
Prof. Atta-ur-Rahman encouraged both institutions to submit joint research proposals to the Government of Sindh to secure funding for innovative and mutually beneficial projects.
On behalf of the Sindh government, Dr. Nazeer Hussain Kalhoro reiterated SIAH’s pivotal role under the Department of Livestock and Fisheries in producing animal vaccines and managing emerging infectious diseases. He noted that SIAH is a nationally recognized institute working toward enhancing research capacity and producing vital biologics for both animal and public health.
Duration of Agreement
According to the MoU, the partnership will remain in effect for five years, with the possibility of extension through mutual consent.
