KU Vice Chancellor Dr Khalid Mahmood Iraqi emphasizes the importance of keeping environment clean

Speakers’ Address at a Seminar Organized on World Environment Day

KARACHI: In observance of the 61st World Environment Day, a comprehensive seminar was held jointly by the Institute of Environmental Studies at the University of Karachi and BA Digital Agency, with support from Gandhara Industrial Limited, SHAPE, Medical Pharma, and BADA. The event aimed to raise awareness about environmental issues, particularly focusing on the theme ‘Ending Plastic Pollution’.

The seminar’s distinguished guest was Dr Khalid Mahmood Iraqi, Vice Chancellor of the University of Karachi, who underscored the critical importance of environmental conservation. The event was also attended by DG SEP Waqar Ahmed, Dean of the Faculty of Sciences Dr Masarat Jahan Yousaf, Students’ Advisor Dr Waqar Ahmed, Director of Evening Studies Dr Farrukh Nawaz, Senior Professor Moazzam Ali Khan, and numerous students and faculty members.

The event was organized by Dr Suraya Jabeen, with active participation from students, who delivered compelling speeches both supporting and opposing this year’s theme. Additionally, students presented a thought-provoking documentary highlighting the dangers of plastic pollution.

During his address, the speakers discussed the adverse effects of plastic use on the environment and emphasized the need for collective action. They highlighted that while government initiatives—such as banning plastic bags from June 15 and distributing over 3,000 cloth bags across malls—are vital, individual responsibility remains paramount. As Dr Khalid Iraqi pointed out, “Change is possible when we ourselves are willing to make it.”

Dr Iraqi praised the students for their active engagement on such an important day and expressed hope that the conversation around environmental and ecological issues is gaining momentum. He elaborated on ongoing efforts by the University of Karachi to improve environmental conditions and stressed that eliminating pollution is essential for securing a sustainable future.

The event concluded with the distribution of certificates and trophies to outstanding participants, reaffirming the collective commitment to environmental stewardship.