SU, HHRD sign MoU to promote disaster risk reduction, climate awareness

The Abida Taherani Sindh Development Studies Center (ATSDSC) at the University of Sindh, Jamshoro and Helping Hand for Relief and Development (HHRD), Pakistan have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on disaster risk reduction (DRR) and climate awareness initiatives.

The MoU, signed on Thursday aims to establish a collaborative framework to promote education, community mobilization and training on DRR activities, particularly in Hyderabad’s Union Councils 102, 103, 104, and 105.

The MoU was signed by Acting Vice-Chancellor of the University of Sindh Prof. Dr. Khalil-ur-Rehman Khoumbati and Director of HHRD Pakistan Mr. Amjad Mahmood Amjad.

Dean Faculty of Social Science Professor Dr Nanak Ram, Director ATSDSC and focal person for the program Professor Dr Irum Khushnood, Deputy Direct ORIC Salman Ahmed, Dr Nosheen Khaskheli, Ali Muhammad Shah and others from both organizations were also present at the signing ceremony.

The agreement outlines joint efforts to enhance resilience among vulnerable populations and strengthen community engagement in disaster preparedness and climate adaptation.

Under the agreement, ATSDSC will provide educational resources, trainers, and students for various field activities, including school-based DRR training sessions, safety planning, and awareness campaigns.

The Center will also organize a tree plantation drive and may allow the use of university premises for HHRD’s training sessions and seminars.

On the other hand, HHRD will support the initiative by providing stipends for trainers, facilitating fieldwork, offering logistical support, and ensuring a safe working environment.

Both institutions have committed to transparency in financial dealings and will jointly monitor and evaluate the impact of the collaboration.