Aspiring climate leaders from Karachi universities tackled policy solutions at the National Dialogue on Climate Change's program launch.
- NDCC’s Climate Literacy Program equips future leaders with skills for climate action and policy dialogue.
- Interactive debates and simulations tackle real-world challenges faced by Pakistan’s Ministry of Climate Change.
The usually vibrant Karachi skyline was obscured by a haze of dust, a stark reminder of the ever-present threat of climate change in Pakistan. But amidst the environmental challenges, a beacon of hope emerged at the National Incubation Center (NIC) at NED University. Here, on Thursday, April 25th, 2024, the National Dialogue on Climate Change (NDCC) kicked off its marquee program, “Climate Literacy Program: The Policy Debate on Climate Change.”
This program, spearheaded by the ambitious NDCC with a mission to mainstream climate change in vulnerable sectors and steer Pakistan towards climate resilience, brought together over 100 bright minds. University students and young professionals from NED University, DOW University, Dawood Engineering, Iqra University, and others eagerly participated in this unique learning experience, aiming to become future leaders in climate action and policy dialogue.
The program’s mastermind, Maliha Abbas, CEO of Ecosol and founder of NDCC, is a force to be reckoned with in the fight against climate change. A visionary leader with a deep understanding of Pakistan’s environmental vulnerabilities, Maliha began her journey in 2020 with a audacious goal: to educate a million Pakistani students on climate adaptation. Her tireless efforts include leading national conversations on climate change, advocating for policy reforms, and fostering youth engagement in environmental solutions. Her keynote speech at the program resonated deeply, highlighting the urgent need for restructuring and adopting climate change policies and urging the youth to be at the forefront of activities to combat the threat of climate change.
The day wasn’t just about lectures. The “Model Ministry of Climate Change” simulated a realistic policy-making environment, fostering in-depth discussions, collaboration, and innovative solutions. Participants received training in climate change policy making, engaged in a thought-provoking panel discussion with industry experts, and then put their learning to the test with a policy-making activity.
Students from DOW University of Health Sciences, particularly enthused, expressed their excitement about implementing the knowledge gained during the training sessions. The day unfolded with brainstorming sessions, mock policy drafts, and interactive dialogues – a microcosm of the real-world challenges faced by Pakistan’s Ministry of Climate Change.
The debate format itself was an engaging mix of activities, designed to equip participants with the necessary skills to tackle climate change challenges:
- Policy Making Speeches: Participants championed specific policy components through persuasive arguments.
- Collaborative Resolution Drafting: Teams worked together to craft a cohesive climate policy document.
- Crisis Simulation: Delegates responded to a simulated extreme weather event, necessitating on-the-spot policy adjustments, reflecting the adaptability required in real-world situations.
- Formalized Amendments: Participants proposed refinements and enhancements to the drafted policy, ensuring a comprehensive and effective final document.
- Interactive Dialogues: Open discussions encouraged critical thinking and solutions to drafting conflicts, fostering a collaborative environment for policy creation.
The inaugural phase of the Climate Literacy Program concluded on a hopeful note. These young minds, armed with knowledge, a passion for action, and the guidance of environmental veterans like Maliha Abbas, are the future torchbearers for a climate-resilient Pakistan. Their journey has just begun, and the success of this program paves the way for a more informed and empowered generation ready to combat the challenges of climate change.