LocationsUNDP, Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS), Government of Gilgit Baltistan and EvK2CNR organized Inception Workshop to formally launch the Glaciers and Students Project
August 25, 2022
August 24, 2022 Gilgit: An inception workshop was conducted to formally launch the project “Glaciers & Students—A Scientific-Based Approach to Monitor Climate and Glaciers in Pakistan Mountain Regions to Support Hydrogeological Risk Prevention”. The project is funded by Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS), executed by UNDP Pakistan, and Implemented on ground by EvK2CNR.
The overall aim of the project is to prevent risks of hydrogeological hazards in Pakistan’s mountain areas, by establishing an evidence-based assessment and monitoring system for mountain glaciers. The project will actively involve local universities in the monitoring activities. A dedicated training and capacity building programme will be designed for the students to ensure long term sustainability of the project.
Representatives from all key stakeholders including Govt. of Gilgit Baltistan, Karakorum International University, Civil Society Organizations were in attendance.
The workshop started with Opening remarks of Knut Ostby, Resident Representative, UNDP. He mentioned that “The importance of projects like Glaciers and Students becomes more vital when it comes to mountains and glaciated regions as the ecosystems in such areas are more fragile and need particular attention.” He added that this project will act as a bridge to transfer the technology and making better decision for resilience.
Imran Ashraf, Senior Advisor Agriculture & Natural Resources, Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS) on Behalf of Emanuela Benini, Director (AICS), stated that “AICS believes in the nexus between Research and Education to be rooted in Pakistan, through a network of linkages between universities and institutes of Italy and Pakistan”.
Faisal Ahsan Pirzada, Secretary Forest, Wildlife and Environment Department, Gilgit Baltistan expressed his views at the event as, “Innovative approaches under Glaciers and Students project are vital for improved resilience”. He reiterated his support to the project and future initiatives.
Khadim Hussain Saleem, Secretary Agriculture, Livestock & Fisheries Department Gilgit-Baltistan expressed his views on behalf of Government of Gilgit Baltistan as Chief Guest and ensured that, “Every possible support will be extended to partners in this project”. He also wished success to all the stakeholders.
Maurizio Gallo, Project Manager, EvK2CNR Italy gave a comprehensive presentation on the project to apprise all the participants on the planned activities. Mr. Ashiq Ahmed Khan, Scientific Research EvK2CNR explained in detail about Glaciers Ecology, challenges, and opportunities. Mr. Shehzad Hassan Shigri, Director, Environmental Protection Agency emphasized on the need of installation of automated weather stations to better predict the hazards. He also explained the research gaps in Pakistan and need for international collaborations
Prof. Dr. Engineer Ataullah Shah, Vice Chancellor Karakorum International University (KIU) briefed the audience on the portfolio of KIU, the support already provided in terms of research to different development projects and glaciers initiatives by KIU.
The event concluded with the Vote of thanks from Mr. Arif Hussain, Regional Manager Gilgit Baltistan EvK2CNR on behalf of Mr. Agostino De Polanzo, President EvK2CNR Association. He expressed thanks to all the participants including government of Gilgit Baltistan representatives, academia, partners, and donors.
For additional information, please contact Ayesha Babar at ayesha.babar@undp.org or +92 (51) 835 5650
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