Rawalakot, (Parliament Times) The Department of Soil and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Poonch Rawalakot, organized a seminar under the theme “Bridging the Gaps from Academic Research to Action – Evolving Partnerships for Translating Theory into Environmental and Climate Change Solutions.”
The keynote speaker was Mr. Shafiq Abbasi, Director General of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), AJK. The seminar was attended by faculty members and a large number of students.
In his address, Mr. Shafiq Abbasi highlighted the pressing environmental challenges of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK). He presented data on rising regional temperatures and explained how the unique geography of AJK contributes to faster glacier melting, shifting rainfall patterns, and increased climate vulnerability. Despite contributing less than one percent to global greenhouse gas emissions, Pakistan and AJK face disproportionate impacts due to their geographical and topographical features. He further noted that rainfall levels in AJK remain comparatively lower than in other parts of Pakistan.
Mr. Shafiq Abbasi also outlined the EPA’s ongoing role in tackling environmental issues and underscored the importance of academia-institution collaboration. He urged the identification of priority research areas on climate and environment, encouraging the Department of Soil and Environmental Sciences to take the lead in this regard.
Dr. Imtiaz Hussain, Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture, welcomed the suggestions and assured Mr. Shafiq Abbasi of the faculty’s full support for joint initiatives. He expressed gratitude to the EPA for showing interest in building strong academic linkages for environmental solutions.
Following the seminar, a focused discussion was held between the Dean, faculty members, and DG EPA AJK to develop actionable plans for collaboration.
In her concluding remarks, Dr. Aqila Shaheen, Chairperson of the Department of Soil and Environmental Sciences, extended thanks to the DG EPA, the Dean, faculty, and students for their active participation. She also announced the creation of a timeline to initiate collaborative activities aimed at transforming research into practical solutions for environmental and climate challenges.