The Yak Gallery highlights the beauty and diversity of these majestic creatures in their natural habitats. Each image captures their significance in high-altitude communities and their stunning mountain landscapes.
Upcoming Events
Past Events
3rd International Conference on The Yak, 20-21 November, 2024 (Skardu, Pakistan)
The Virtual University of Pakistan, in collaboration with the University of Baltistan, organized the 3rd International Conference on THE YAK (Bos grunniens): Lifeline in High Mountains in Skardu on November 20-21, 2024. The event, co-hosted with the Livestock Department of Gilgit-Baltistan, ICIMOD, and the Yak and Camel Foundation (Germany), brought together global experts, researchers, and stakeholders.
Prof. Dr. Mohammad Mohsin Javed (Dean, VUP) chaired the event, while Prof. Dr. Masroor Ellahi Babar (Ex-VC, University of Agriculture D.I. Khan) served as Chief Guest. Dr. Tanveer Hussain (VUP) and Dr. Ghulam Raza (UOBS) highlighted the conference's ecological focus on Yaks. The Chief Guest launched the Yak and Camel Association of Pakistan website and Yak Youth Club to foster collaboration among academia, communities, and government.
Key speeches included insights from Prof. Dr. Javed, a message from VUP’s Rector, and contributions by Dr. Alamdar Hussain (UOBS), Dr. Takbir Ali (Livestock Department), and Mr. Ijaz Ahmad (ICIMOD). Discussions ranged from Yak genetics to their adaptations for extreme climates.
Highlights included a Poster, Model, and Drawing Competition for students and a Field Visit showcasing Yaks in their natural habitat. Farmers shared insights into the economic value of Yak farming.
With over 300 in-person and international online participants, the conference featured 30+ presentations in three sessions, engaging students, researchers, farmers, and officials in discussions on the Yak’s vital role in high-altitude livelihoods.
2nd International Conference on The Yak, 14-15 October, 2022 (Skardu, Pakistan)
Summary: The Virtual University of Pakistan, in collaboration with national and international partners, held the 2nd International Conference on the Yak in Skardu, highlighting the Yak’s ecological, biological, and economic significance as a “lifeline in high mountains.” Experts from China, Mongolia, and Pakistan discussed Yak genetics, physiology, and productivity. Activities included poster competitions, a Yak exhibition, and interactions with Yak farmers. The conference emphasized creating a Yak Foundation and Research Center, with over 150 participants engaging in research, education, and development discussions.
1st International Conference on The Yak 18 March, 2021 (Lahore,Pakistan)
Summary: The Virtual University of Pakistan hosted the 1st International Conference on the Yak at its Lahore headquarters to discuss advanced research on Yak genetics, networks, and its significance in Gilgit-Baltistan. Experts from Pakistan, China, Nepal, and other regions presented insights on Yak’s adaptability to extreme environments, its role in providing essential resources, and its distribution in high-altitude areas. The Chief Guests emphasized Yak's importance as a genetic resource and livelihood provider, urging further research and government support. The event highlighted the collaborative efforts of national and international institutions and concluded with the distribution of shields.
