Int’l conference at SU stresses International Community, Aid Agencies to help Pakistan in dealing with challenges of global warming
A three-day 1st International Conference titled “Exploring the Effects of Urbanization, Disasters and Protection Strategies on the Folk Medicine and Cultural Heritage of Sindh” organized by the University of Sindh in collaboration with the provincial higher education commission (HEC) has kicked off at Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto Convention Center here on Thursday.
Experts and researchers at the conference highlighted the severe impact of climate change on Pakistan, particularly Sindh and emphasized the need for immediate global cooperation and support for the Government of Pakistan to address these challenges.
Addressing the ceremony, the Vice-Chancellor Sindh University, Professor (Meritorious) Dr. Muhammad Siddique Kalhoro underscored the ongoing adverse effects of climate change in various areas of Pakistan, including Sindh.
He emphasized that these threats posed a growing risk of destruction for the entire region in the future. He called upon the international community and aid agencies to collaborate with the government of Pakistan in tackling climate change and addressing this critical global issue collectively.
On the occasion, the keynote speaker Director of the Finnish Institute for the Middle East Dr. Suzanne Dahlgren presented her paper on natural disasters and coping mechanisms. She stressed the importance of sustaining rural life in Sindh and advocated for its preservation.
Dean Faculty of Sciences at Aga Khan University Professor Dr. Stephen Levin highlighted the global necessity for sustainable environmental resource management and urged exploration of the consequences of climate change to mitigate natural disasters.
Preserving Heritage: Professor Dr. Zulfikar Kalhoro from the Pakistan Institute of Development Economics delved into the profound impact of climate change on Sindh's cultural heritage. Focusing on ceramics, wall paintings, and architectural features of historical monuments, he emphasized the urgent need for preservation.
Professor at Pakistan Institute of Development Economics Dr Zulfiqar Kalhoro stated that the proposals put forth by national and international experts during the conference would be shared with provincial and federal governments. “This collaboration aims to formulate effective plans for combating the significant challenge of climate change in the region”, he said.
He elaborated on the use of ceramics and wall paintings, focusing on the distinctive architectural features of the Kalhoras and Talpur monuments and emphasized on ensuring their preservation.
Later, various sessions started in the conference, where scholars presented research papers on the subject.
Later, various research papers were presented during the conference sessions, covering diverse aspects of the impact of climate change on Sindh. Scholars aimed to contribute valuable insights to the ongoing discourse on the subject.
Earlier, the conference commenced with the recitation of the Holy Quran and Naat, followed by the playing of the national anthem. Conference Secretary Dr Abdul Razzaq Channa extended a warm welcome and the Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences Professor Dr. Hamadullah Kakepoto paid a vote of thanks to the guests. The event saw active participation from teachers, scholars and students alike.
