He expressed these views while addressing a meeting here at University of Peshawar on Thursday.

VC UoP Prof. Dr. Azmat Hayat, DG Pakistan Forest Institute, Syed Bukhari Shah, dean Faculty of Numerical Sciences Prof. Dr. Muhammad Riaz Khan and other high officials of the concerned departments were present on the occasion.

The Provincial Minister said that Pakistan Forest Institute was the second biggest institute that carried out research on forest related issues.

He said that University of Peshawar was precious and historical asset of the province adding that the standard of research and education should be further improved.

Moreover, he added that Peshawar University had its branches across the province with a view to provide education to students at their doorsteps.

The VC said that Pakistan Forest Institute should be handed over to Peshawar University to start M Phil and Ph.D programs.

Copyright APP (Associated Press of Pakistan), 2011