Climate Leadership Town Hall and Climate Policy Dialogue Held at Shah Abdul Latif University Khairpur.
Climate Leadership Town Hall and Climate Policy Dialogue Held at Shah Abdul Latif University Khairpur.
PRESS RELEASE
Khairpur:
In line with the climate mitigation vision and commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the Vice Chancellor, Meritorious Prof. Dr. Yousuf Khushk, the Students Societies Center, Shah Abdul Latif University (SALU), in collaboration with Collective Pakistan, YECAP, NDMA Islamabad, and PMYDC, organized a Climate Leadership Town Hall and Climate Policy Dialogue to raise awareness about climate change, environmental sustainability, and youth engagement in climate action.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Ali Raza Lashari, Coordinator Students Societies Center, explained the objectives of the program and highlighted the importance of involving youth in environmental initiatives. He stated that the Students Societies Center always welcomes partnerships with organizations working on environmental protection and sustainable development.
He said that climate change is not only an environmental issue but also a social and economic challenge that requires collective action. He further emphasized that universities must play a leading role in preparing young people to become responsible climate leaders and advocates for sustainable development.
Dr. Mujeeb-ur-Rehman Abro, Chairman, Department of Media and Communication Studies, welcomed the guests and participants. He stated that the media plays a vital role in spreading environmental awareness and educating communities about climate-related challenges. He added that responsible journalism and effective communication can significantly contribute to promoting environmentally responsible behavior and public participation in climate action.
The keynote speakers, Mr. Mir Mureed Ali Talpur, Deputy Director and District Incharge Khairpur, and Mr. Punhal Khoso, Assistant Director and Focal Person for Environmental Issues, District Khairpur, emphasized the importance of coordinated efforts among government institutions, academia, civil society organizations, and local communities to address environmental challenges. They stressed the need for tree plantation, environmental conservation, and public awareness campaigns to mitigate the impacts of climate change. Both officials assured their full support and collaboration for future environmental initiatives and awareness campaigns in the district.
Mr. Rashid Ali Amur, Plantation Officer, Shah Abdul Latif University Khairpur, announced that the university would designate a specific area for plantation drives. He stated that partner NGOs and government departments working closely with the Students Societies Center would be encouraged to plant trees in the designated area, making the university a model green campus.
Ms. Kainat, Social Activist and Postgraduate Scholar at AIT Thailand, joined the dialogue as an online speaker. She highlighted the importance of youth participation in climate governance and stressed that climate change is a global challenge requiring local solutions and international cooperation. She encouraged students to become climate ambassadors within their communities.
In his video message, Dr. Usman from NDMA Islamabad emphasized the importance of disaster preparedness, climate resilience, and community-based adaptation strategies. He appreciated the efforts of Shah Abdul Latif University and its partners in engaging youth on climate-related issues and encouraged students to actively participate in environmental protection and disaster risk reduction initiatives.
During the table discussion, Mr. Abbas highlighted the issue of illegal cutting of trees in the desert regions of Kingri, Thari, and Faiz Ganj and urged relevant authorities and communities to take immediate measures to protect these valuable natural resources.
One of the participants, Ms. Elsa Rubab Chandio, appreciated the initiative and described the dialogue as highly informative and beneficial. She expressed the hope that such awareness programs and policy dialogues would be expanded to local communities to strengthen public engagement in environmental protection efforts.
In his concluding remarks, Prof. Dr. Farman Mangi, Chairman, Department of Physics and Electronics, stated that trees and flowers contribute not only to environmental sustainability but also to human well-being and mental health. He emphasized that a green environment creates positive energy, improves quality of life, and fosters a stronger connection between people and nature. He urged everyone to actively participate in plantation and environmental conservation activities.
The event was attended by Ms. Hira Jatoi, Ms. Sadia Larik, Mr. Asad Abbas, faculty members, and a large number of students representing various youth clubs and societies of the university.
At the conclusion of the event, Mr. Muzamil Somro President PMYDC team presented the vote of thanks to the guest speakers, partner organizations, faculty members, and students for their valuable participation and contributions towards making the event a success.
Media Section
SALU Khairpur
