22/04/2026
PRESS RELEASE:
Khairpur, April 22, 2026 — The Institute of International Relations and Peace Studies (IIRPS), Shah Abdul Latif University (SALU), Khairpur, commemorated Earth Day 2026 empowered by ORIC & QEC of Shah Abdul Latif University Khairpur Mir's with great enthusiasm under the global theme “Our Power, Our Planet.”The event was organized as part of an academic assignment project assigned to BS-III students by Ms Shahar Bano Soomro for the subject _Global Politics of Environment_.
The event commenced with a plantation drive on the IIRPS premises, reflecting a practical commitment to environmental sustainability. This was followed by a poster competition and a speech competition, where students actively demonstrated awareness, creativity, and critical understanding of pressing environmental challenges.
The Vice Chancellor, Meritorious Professor Dr. Yousuf Khushk, graced the occasion through Video Message as the Chief Guest and appreciated the initiative of IIRPS for translating classroom learning into civic action. In his extended address, Dr. Khushk emphasized that _“Earth Day is no longer a symbolic event — it is a reminder of our collective responsibility toward a planet under stress.”_
He noted that Pakistan, despite contributing less than 1% to global carbon emissions, remains among the 10 most climate-vulnerable countries. The devastating floods of 2022, the accelerating sea intrusion in coastal Sindh, and the record-breaking heatwaves are not distant warnings. They are here, and they directly threaten our food security, water availability, and social stability,” he said.
Linking the theme to the mandate of IIRPS, the Vice Chancellor stated: _“For students of International Relations and Peace Studies, environmental degradation is not just an ecological issue — it is a security issue. Climate change is a threat multiplier. It fuels displacement, resource conflicts, and human suffering. There can be no lasting peace on a dying planet.”_
Dr. Khushk lauded the role of academia in shaping *“green diplomacy”* and urged universities to lead research on climate resilience, water diplomacy, and disaster governance. He called upon SALU’s youth to become *“Climate Ambassadors”* and announced that the university will strengthen its *green campus policy* and encourage departments to adopt zero-plastic practices.
He concluded with a call to action [Our power lies in our choices — to plant, to conserve, to educate, and to lead. Our planet’s future depends on the responsibility we take today. IIRPS has shown that path through this meaningful celebration].
During the session, Mr. Sarfaraz Ali Korejo,Director In-Charge, Institute of International Relations and Peace Studies, Shah Abdul Latif University Khairpur commended the students friendly leadership of Shah Abdul Latif University Khairpur- Worthy Vice Chancellor Meritorious Professor Dr Yousif Khushk for excelling such Initiatives through outstanding students of University. Mr Korejo appreciated the students for their active participation and efforts in this unique project under the kind &proud patronage of Dean Faculty of Social Sciences, Professor Dr Liaqat Ali Chandio, respected faculty members. He also highlighted the importance of Earth Day and stressed the environmental challenges that require urgent attention.He pledged to make University green and environment friendly under the dynamic leadership of Dr Khushk and other stakeholders.
The event was graced by distinguished guest speaker Mr. Zubair Ahmed Soomro, a renowned poet, author, and columnist, currently serving as Head of Training and Development at SARSO. In his address, he shed light on the current environmental situation and its far-reaching consequences. He also highlighted the impactful environmental initiatives undertaken by SRSO, stressing the need for collective efforts to address climate challenges.
Among the notable attendees were: Mr. Ishrat Ali Mirani, In-charge Peace and Conflict Studies; Madame Dr Shaista Pathan Focal Person, PM Pakistan ' s Green Pakistan Initiative at Shah Abdul Latif University, Khairpur, Dr. Ahmed Memon; , Dr. Zaheer Hussain Soomro; Dr. Ramzan Kolachi; Mr. Aijaz Ahmed Shaikh; Madam Shahida Raz; Mr. Ali Akbar Abbasi; and Madam Shahar Bano Soomro.
Furthermore, Mr. Ishrat Ali Mirani elaborated on the causes of environmental degradation and its long-term impacts on global stability.
Dr. Ahmed Memon provided an insightful explanation of the Earth’s significance and its vital role in sustaining life.
Dr. Zaheer Hussain Soomro highlighted the importance of observing Earth Day as a means to reinforce environmental awareness.
Mr. Aijaz Ahmed Shaikh discussed the overall environmental situation and stressed the urgency of understanding climate change.
Ms. Shahar Bano Soomro the host of event highlighted the academic significance of assigning Earth Day as a project and emphasized the importance of engaging students in real-world environmental issues to foster responsibility and awareness. In her concluding remarks, she further stressed the need to adopt sustainable practices and environmental ethics, stating that Earth Day should not be limited to a single day of observance but embraced as a continuous responsibility in our daily lives.
Certificates were distributed among the participants of the speech and poster competitions in recognition of their active participation and commendable efforts.
The event was effectively moderated by Mr. Najeeb Larik, ensuring a smooth and engaging flow of activities throughout the program.
The Earth Day celebration at IIRPS served as a meaningful platform to promote environmental consciousness, By organizing events like Earth Day, LSS bridges the gap between classroom learning and real-world environmental responsibility.
