The Department of Environmental Science, Faculty of Basic & Applied Sciences in collaboration with EDCONS Institute of Business & Technology (EIBT) and other institutes of Occupational Health and Safety, organized a seminar to celebrate the world day for Safety and Health SAFE DAY)-2018 at Quaid-e-Azam Auditorium, International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI).
The objective of this seminar was to create awareness about the critical importance for addressing the challenges being faced by young workers in Pakistan and for improving their safety and health to ensure provision of better and safer work environment. The theme for the Safe Day 2018 was Occupational Health and Safety: Vulnerability of Young Workers. Number of aspects including the vulnerability of young workers, its challenges and precautionary measures, international standards and local legislation and the importance of education and training of young workers, were discussed by the speakers on this occasion.
Dr. Aqdas Naveed Malik, Vice President Higher Studies & Research (HSR) IIUI, was the Chief Guest of the program, who emphasized about the individual responsibility to develop a safety first attitude. He urged the audience to continue their efforts for a safer work environment for all, throughout the year. Dr. Abdul Rehman Cheema, President, Fire and Safety Association of Pakistan (FSAP) stressed on integrating the subject of Occupational Health and Safety in the national curriculum to prepare the upcoming workforce for the challenges of workplace. Ms. Saima Sayyed from Saving 9 highlighted the need for creating safety culture and training people in far flung areas of country, where the ambulances and hospitals are not easily available; she also highlighted the important role of emergency and rescue in prevention of harm to young workers.
Dr. Muhammad Ibrar Shinwari, Chairman, Department of Environmental Science (DES), IIUI realized the value of young workers for the present and future of Pakistan during his speech. He said that, we should ensure a safe and healthy environment where our young generation can thrive and prosper.