- Focusing on sustainability, agriculture can address the challenges of climate change, resource depletion, and growing demand
Interview with Dr Saiyid Khusro Iqbal — PhD (Legal Advisor to World Bank Karachi Mobility Project)
PAGE: Tell me something about yourself, please:
Dr Saiyid Khusro Iqbal: I am an experienced HR leader with a strong background in both human resources and legal advisory. I hold a Ph.D. in Human Resources & Law, and have spent over 15 years leading HR, operations, and legal functions in diverse industries, including global organizations such as the World Bank, Avari International Hotels Group, and General Tyre & Rubber Company. My expertise includes driving organisational transformation, optimising HR strategies, managing cross-functional teams, and ensuring compliance with legal frameworks. I’m passionate about fostering inclusive work environments, developing talent, and aligning HR practices with business objectives to drive overall organisational success.
PAGE: Speed of service is rather vital these days in fast-food cuisine business. Your perspective:
Dr Saiyid Khusro Iqbal: I believe speed of service is crucial in the fast-food industry, as it directly impacts customer satisfaction and retention. In today’s fast-paced world, customers expect quick, efficient service without compromising on quality. To achieve this, businesses must focus on streamlining operations, investing in technology for order processing, and training staff to work effectively under pressure. Additionally, creating an agile workforce that can adapt to peak demand times is essential. By prioritizing efficiency and continually optimising service delivery, fast-food businesses can meet customer expectations and stay competitive in a rapidly evolving market.
PAGE: Quick and efficient preparation as well as distribution might be coming at a cost. What is your standpoint in this regard?
Dr Saiyid Khusro Iqbal: While quick and efficient preparation and distribution are essential in maintaining customer satisfaction, it’s important to balance speed with quality and sustainability. Rushing production to meet high demand can sometimes compromise product quality or increase operational costs, such as labour, waste, and resource usage.
I believe businesses should invest in process improvements, such as automation and better workforce training, to maintain efficiency without sacrificing quality or increasing costs. Additionally, finding cost-effective solutions for sourcing ingredients and reducing waste can help balance speed with profitability, ensuring long-term sustainability without compromising the customer experience.
PAGE: Fast-food products are often highly processed and precooked or frozen and may contain artificial preservatives in addition to high levels of sodium, cholesterol, saturated fats, and refined grains and sugars. How would you comment on it?
Dr Saiyid Khusro Iqbal: I understand the concerns regarding the nutritional quality of fast food products, as many are processed and contain preservatives, high sodium, cholesterol, and unhealthy fats. As consumer awareness of health and wellness grows, it’s important for businesses in the fast-food industry to adapt. I believe there is an opportunity for companies to innovate by offering healthier alternatives, such as fresh ingredients, lower sodium options, and meals with better nutritional balance. Additionally, transparent labeling and a focus on sourcing healthier ingredients can help attract health-conscious customers without sacrificing the convenience and speed that define the industry.
PAGE: What is your perspective about agriculture sector?
Dr Saiyid Khusro Iqbal: The agriculture sector in Pakistan plays a pivotal role in the economy, contributing significantly to GDP, employment, and exports. However, challenges such as outdated farming techniques, water scarcity, and lack of modern infrastructure hinder its potential. Inadequate access to technology and credit for farmers also limits productivity.
To revitalise this sector, there needs to be an emphasis on modernising agricultural practices, improving irrigation systems, and providing farmers with better access to markets and financial support. Strengthening the agricultural supply chain and promoting sustainable practices can help Pakistan become more self-sufficient and competitive globally.
On a global scale, agriculture is crucial for food security and economic development, particularly in emerging economies. As the global population grows, the demand for food will increase, making agriculture even more essential. There is a strong push towards sustainable farming practices and innovations in crop production, such as genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and precision farming, which have the potential to enhance yields while minimising environmental impact.
Additionally, global trade policies and climate change are major factors influencing agricultural output, with both challenges and opportunities arising for countries worldwide to adapt and grow.
In both the Pakistan region and globally, the future of agriculture lies in a balance between tradition and innovation. By adopting advanced technologies and focusing on sustainability, agriculture can meet the challenges of climate change, resource depletion, and increasing demand. For Pakistan, leveraging global best practices while addressing local challenges through tailored solutions could enhance food security, increase exports, and foster economic growth. Globally, collaboration in research, development, and trade will be key in shaping the future of agriculture to support a growing and changing world.