Jamshoro, The University of Sindh, in collaboration with the provincial Higher Education Commission (HEC), commenced its first three-day International Conference at Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto Convention Center. The conference, titled Exploring the Effects of Urbanization, Disasters and Protection Strategies on the Folk Medicine and Cultural Heritage of Sindh, brought together experts and researchers to discuss the impact of climate change on Pakistan, with a particular focus on Sindh.
According to University of Sindh, the conference aimed to shed light on the severe consequences of climate change in Pakistan, especially in Sindh. The Vice-Chancellor of Sindh University, Professor (Meritorious) Dr. Muhammad Siddique Kalhoro, in his address, highlighted the adverse effects of climate change in various areas of Pakistan, including Sindh. He underscored the growing threat of destruction posed by these challenges and called for international cooperation and aid to assist the Government of Pakistan in tackling climate change.
Keynote speaker Dr. Suzanne Dahlgren, Director of the Finnish Institute for the Middle East, presented a paper on natural disasters and coping mechanisms. She emphasized the importance of preserving rural life in Sindh and its cultural significance. Dean Faculty of Sciences at Aga Khan University, Professor Dr. Stephen Levin, stressed the global need for sustainable environmental resource management and urged further exploration into the consequences of climate change to mitigate natural disasters.
The conference also highlighted the impact of climate change on Sindh’s rich cultural heritage. Professor Dr. Zulfikar Kalhoro from the Pakistan Institute of Development Economics focused on the effect on ceramics, wall paintings, and architectural features of historical monuments in the region, advocating for their urgent preservation.
Professor Kalhoro stated that the proposals and insights gathered from national and international experts at the conference would be shared with provincial and federal governments to formulate effective plans to combat climate change in the region. He detailed the unique architectural features of the Kalhoras and Talpur monuments, emphasizing the necessity of their preservation.
The conference included various sessions where scholars presented research papers on diverse aspects of climate change’s impact on Sindh. These papers aimed to contribute to the ongoing discourse on climate change and its effects on the region.
The event began with the recitation of the Holy Quran and Naat, followed by the playing of the national anthem. Dr. Abdul Razzaq Channa, the Conference Secretary, welcomed the attendees, and Professor Dr. Hamadullah Kakepoto, Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, extended his gratitude to the guests. The conference saw active participation from teachers, scholars, and students.