Policy level measures demanded for building resilient communities: Independence Day celebrated in Umerkot
Umerkot (Aug 16, 2024): Umerkot district is vulnerable to harsh climate in terms of drought, flash and riverine floods so, the routine agriculture production is declining and multidimensional poverty is rising, so there is dire need to take the policy level measures for concrete steps for building the resilient communities is need of hour; demanded by speakers during an event organized by AWARE with support of Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Fund (PPAF) with connection to Pakistan’s 77th Independence Day.
Engineer Bhoom Singh Sodho, renowned environmentalist and organic agriculture expert said that we must celebrate Independence Day and this is joyous moment also reminds us the responsibility toward to serving our beloved country. Sodho indicated that due to excessive use of pesticides and chemical fertilizer our soil yielding capacity is decreased and now the due to increasing temperature and other climate factors the routine practices in agriculture is not yielding any result in Umerkot district. He discussed the critical issues related to environmental conservation and sustainable agricultural practices and beside that he shared his experiences. He underscored the importance of protecting natural resources and promoting eco-friendly practices in rural communities. The expert also engaged with the students and teachers on ways to incorporate environmental education into the school curriculum.
Educationists present at the event spoke about the role of education in nation-building and the importance of empowering the youth with knowledge and skills to contribute positively to society. Mr. Abdullah Faqir Deputy District Education Officer highlighted the significance of quality education in rural areas and the need for collective efforts to ensure that every child receives the education they deserve.
Educationist Abdul Kahlique Rahimoo highlighted the importance of day and urged teachers to build the understanding around routine issues faced by students in their daily life; ethics, justified use of natural resources, environment and climate related matters. Khan Muhamamd Solangi, Deputy Director special education shared that inclusive education policies be promoted and no one should be left behind at nay cost.
Another educationist Tulsi Ram emphasized the importance of freedom and the sacrifices made by our forefathers to secure a free and independent nation. He urged the audience to remember the values of unity, faith, and discipline, which are the pillars of Pakistan’s foundation.
Karim Bux Shaikh a technocrat demanded that climate change related legislation be made and departments concerned must take concrete measures for climate change adaptation. He highlighted the issues being faced by residents of Umerkot district and nearby districts in terms of harsh climate; drought, flash and riverine floods and their effects on routine agriculture; production is declining and multidimensional poverty is rising, so he demanded for concrete steps for building the resilient communities.
On the occasion, Ali Hassan Soomro, Aashique Hussain Detho, Nusrat Bano, Ali Akbar Rahimoo and other representatives from various civil society organizations expressed their commitment to working together for the betterment of the community. They emphasized the need for collaboration among different sectors to address the challenges faced by rural areas, such as education, health, and livelihood opportunities.
The students also participated in various cultural performances, including folk dances, speeches, tableaus and poetry recitations that depicted the rich cultural heritage of the region. The event concluded with a tree-planting ceremony in the school compound, symbolizing growth, resilience, and the commitment to a greener and healthier Pakistan. The event was organized in premises of Government Primary School Khan Sahib Atta Muhammad Palli came alive with the vibrant colors of patriotism as students, educationists, environment and agriculture experts, and civil society representatives gathered to celebrate Pakistan’s 77th Independence Day. The event was marked by enthusiasm and a deep sense of national pride as participants commemorated the day with a series of activities that highlighted the spirit of independence. The school grounds were adorned with green and white decorations, and the atmosphere was filled with the sounds of patriotic songs performed by the children.
