DERA GHAZI KHAN: The Ghazi University will establish a Confucius Institute to foster educational and cultural collaboration between Pakistan and China. The initiative, announced by Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Ashfaq, will focus on Chinese language education and cultural exchange programmes, further strengthening ties with China. In an interview, Dr Ashfaq shared his vision to transform Ghazi University into a centre of academic excellence for south Punjab. Key initiatives include improving teaching standards by adopting modern pedagogical methods and aligning them with international benchmarks. He added that he had plans to attract international research funding and create a cutting-edge research center. Mentioning climate change, the vice chancellor stated that the university would promote interdisciplinary and climate-related research, supporting sustainable solutions for the region. Dr Ashfaq also revealed plans to rehabilitate the university’s airport campus, with his office being relocated there upon its completion. The university will also introduce new academic programmes, including short courses and degree programmes tailored to address the specific needs of Dera Ghazi Khan, Rajanpur and Muzaffargarh. In the agricultural sector, Dr Ashfaq announced the development of a date value chain to support farmers and the scientific promotion of local livestock breeds like Dajal and Nuqra. Efforts will also be made to improve pasture development and enhance livestock farming practices. Additionally, the university plans to study and optimise the usage of hill torrent water systems for the benefit of local communities. Dr Ashfaq underlined the university’s commitment to promoting regional languages, including Seraiki and Balochi, alongside Chinese. He further emphasized the importance of building a sustainable agricultural economy through community education and skill development programs, aiming to uplift the socio-economic conditions of south Punjab. :The Gaddai police registered a case of abduction of Excise Inspector Sheikh Sikandar, who went missing after departing from his house. According to the first information report (FIR) registered at Gaddai police station, Sikandar’s brother stated that his brother, an Excise Inspector at the Dera Ghazi Khan office, went missing after leaving his residence in NDV Colony. The complainant expressed fear that unidentified people may have abducted Sikandar for unknown reasons.