Khalifa Al Tunaiji: Food innovation key to nation building

September 11, 2025 / 6:50 PM

His Excellency Dr Eng. Khalifa Al Tunaiji, Chairman of Sharjah Department of Agriculture and Livestock and CEO of the Sharjah Agricultural and Livestock Production Establishment (EKTIFA), emphasised that today’s focus is on youth, among whom there is a growing interest in food security and agriculture.

Speaking to “Sharjah 24” on the sidelines of a panel discussion titled "Youth Shaping Tomorrow with Sustainable Thinking" at the Knowledge Development Hall during the International Government Communication Forum, Dr Al Tunaiji stated that nations are built on food innovation and scientific research. This foundation depends on the ability to adapt to climate challenges and changes to develop plant varieties and food products that are resilient to pests and environmental stressors.

He highlighted that several countries have succeeded in achieving food security, pointing in particular to India’s Green Revolution in the 1960s, which transformed the country into one of the largest food producers globally.

Dr Al Tunaiji added that today, we place our hopes in the younger generation to advance scientific research in the food sector. By driving innovation and research, they can develop food crops and industries capable of withstanding climate change, drought, and high temperatures—thereby contributing to raising the UAE’s food security index.

The 14th edition of the International Government Communication Forum (IGCF), held over two days at Expo Centre Sharjah, tackled key topics including food security, public health, education, sustainability, and the green economy, under the theme "Communication for Quality of Life."