By: STAFF REPORTER
ISLAMABAD: The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) organized a workshop on climate resilience research coordination through its Higher Education System Strengthening Activity. The purpose of this forum was to enhance the capabilities of researchers in co-producing interdisciplinary research, education, and workforce development that promote climate adaptation and resilience in Pakistan.
The inaugural session of the three-day workshop was chaired by Mr. Yohannes Araya, Deputy Mission Director of USAID/Pakistan. Notable attendees included Ms. Asima Rehman, Acting Director of Education at USAID/Pakistan, Dr. Michael Barber from the University of Utah, Dr. Steve Burian from the University of Alabama, Ms. Nadia Rehman from the Planning Commission, and Mr. Nisar Memon from the Water Environment Forum.
During the session, Dr. Michael Barber stressed the significance of academia in addressing the climate crisis. He acknowledged that Pakistan is highly vulnerable to climate change, ranking among the top 10 most impacted countries. He expressed satisfaction with the launch of the research coordination network on climate change, as it aims to support Pakistani faculty researchers in conducting applied research and fostering collaboration with local and global peers. The objective is to develop innovative, locally relevant solutions that will enhance Pakistan’s climate resilience.
Pakistan’s higher education sector has a vital role to play in leading teams and generating ideas to help communities adapt and build resilience through teaching, research, and local community service.
Mr. Yohannes Araya, Deputy Mission Director of USAID/Pakistan, announced their commitment to working with partner countries, including Pakistan, to implement measures for reducing emissions, transitioning to renewable energy, and strengthening resilience against climate change impacts.
The Higher Education System Strengthening Activity, implemented by the University of Utah, supports the Higher Education Commission (HEC) and 16 partner universities across Pakistan in enhancing institutional capacity for market-led education and research.
Overall, the workshop serves as a crucial platform for advancing climate resilience research in Pakistan, fostering collaboration, and equipping researchers with the necessary tools to address the challenges posed by climate change.
