Internat
ional conference on women, environment and environmental justice commenced here at female campus of International Islamic University Islamabad.
The moot is organized by varsity’s Critical Thinking Forum (CTF) in collaboration with US embassy, Islamabad. Inaugural session was attended by Professor Dr. Shahid Siddiqui, Vice Chancellor, Allama Iqbal Open University, Islamabad (AIOU) as chief guest whereas Professor Dr. Muhamamd Masoom Yasinzai, Rector, IIUI presided over the ceremony.
Mr. Rob Raines, U.S Embassy Counselor for Public Affairs Islamabad, Prof. Dr. Cara Cilano, chairperson department of English, Michigan State University, USA, Dr. Samina Malik, Director Female Campus IIUI, Dr. Munazza Yaqoob, Project Director, Founder & in charge Critical Thinking Forum (CTF), department of English, IIUI and large number of students also attended the ceremony.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Siddiqui said that in reality there is no stereo-type of standard and sub-standard in society but it is created by dominant groups which can be tackled through education. He added that education is essential to find differences prevailing in society and to eradicate those. “Development is not only construction of roads, buildings and infrastructure but composition of freedom of expression, thoughts and justice in society” said Vice Chancellor AIOU.
He further said that education is a tool to learn how to live with others in society with good manners and termed it as an essential for development. Dr. Siddiqui suggested that the education system should be transformable instead of transmission based to bring development in the society. He appreciated role of media in promoting education in the country and stressed upon new strategies to excel it.
Rector IIUI, Dr. Masoom said that men and women should have equitable participation in environmental justice, more for women because they have more interaction with environment in daily lives. He said that urbanization and loss of natural resources have resulted in the massive increase in environmental pollution which caused enormous harm to the well-being of masses.
Rob Raines appreciated the efforts of CTF and hailed its contributions. He said that people to people contact is vital for cultural exchange to create favorable momentum in the society. Mr. Rob appreciated role of students and civil society in US contributing in cultural exchanges with different countries.
The event was also addressed by Dr. Munnaza Yaqoob who elaborated the role of CTF. Dr. Samina Malik welcomed the guests and thanked IIUI administration for cooperation in arranging the moot. At the end Rector IIUI presented University crest to the chief guest. Reported by (Jamshid Ullah Khan).