ISLAMABAD, Feb 25 (APP):Chairman Senate Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani Wednesday said that Pakistan ranks among the most climate-affected nations in the world.
From unprecedented floods to rising temperatures and water stress, environmental challenges have directly impacted the economy, agriculture, and livelihoods, he expressed these views while addressing at the Cambridge Climate Quest Prize Distribution Ceremony at Roots International Education Network Islamabad.
Welcoming the initiative, Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani congratulated Roots International Education Network for cultivating a culture that promotes academic excellence alongside global citizenship.
He appreciated the leadership of CEO Walid Mushtaq, faculty members, and administration for aligning education with sustainability and preparing students to confront global challenges with confidence, awareness, and integrity.
Highlighting the significance of the event, the Chairman noted that more than one thousand students had successfully completed the Cambridge Climate Quest Certification.
He termed this achievement not merely an academic milestone, but a powerful statement of awareness, commitment, and youth leadership at a time when climate change has become an urgent and lived reality.
The Chairman Senate extended heartfelt congratulations to the students receiving certificates, expressing hope that their accomplishments would inspire many others to adopt informed and responsible leadership in environmental stewardship.
He underscored that education remains the most powerful instrument of transformation. When students understand climate science, environmental ethics, and sustainable practices, they become agents of change within their families, communities, and the nation at large.
He assured the audience that environmental sustainability remains a key national priority. Parliamentary forums continue to deliberate on climate resilience, renewable energy transition, water conservation, and responsible development. However, he stressed that policy frameworks alone are insufficient without grassroots awareness fostered by educational institutions.
The Chairman also appreciated the symbolic plantation drive held at the commencement of the ceremony, describing tree plantation as a declaration of hope and a commitment to stewardship for future generations.
In his concluding remarks, Gilani urged students to translate their certification into meaningful daily practices conserving resources, reducing waste, promoting sustainable lifestyles, and encouraging climate dialogue.
He emphasized that leadership in the 21st century will increasingly be defined by environmental responsibility.
Reaffirming that climate responsibility is a shared duty of governments, institutions, communities, and individuals, he called for collective awareness, collaboration, and sustained action to build a more resilient and sustainable Pakistan.
Secretary Inter- Parliamentary Speakers conference, Misbah Khar was also present at the ceremony.