Tando Jam (Reporter Munsif Ahmed Talpur) Experts and speakers at a climate-focused ceremony held at Sindh Agriculture University (SAU), Tandojam, emphasized that the fight against climate change must extend beyond global summits to everyday decisions in homes and villages. While acknowledging the severe challenges posed by climate change, particularly in Sindh, they highlighted its potential to drive innovation, sustainability, and community empowerment.
The event, organized under the UNDP-supported Climate Promise Green Skills Training Program in collaboration with Dawood Global Foundation and Maple Solar Solutions, marked the distribution of 100 solar ovens to students and rural women. The initiative aims to promote eco-friendly cooking practices and reduce reliance on firewood, which poses health and environmental risks. Addressing the ceremony, SAU Vice Chancellor Dr Altaf Ali Sial said Sindh’s rural areas were among the hardest hit by climate change, facing acute fuel shortages, dependence on firewood, and health risks for women.
He noted that solar ovens would not only help reduce household expenses but also cut carbon emissions and promote an eco-friendly lifestyle. He urged graduates, particularly female students, to support rural women in adopting sustainable practices and improving livelihoods through local resources. Deputy Commissioner Hyderabad, Mr. Zain-ul-Abidin Memon, shared that over 1,200 students, equally male and female, from districts including Mirpurkhas, Tando Allahyar, Larkana, and Dadu have received training in organic farming, water harvesting, beekeeping, digital marketing, and fuel-efficient cooking.
He described these as “life skills” essential for transitioning communities from poverty to self-reliance. Ms. Tara Uzra Dawood, President of Dawood Global Foundation, emphasized that more than 85% of the trainings were conducted in Sindhi, ensuring accessibility and impact. She highlighted that rural women, most affected by the fuel crisis and would benefit directly from solar ovens, which offer healthier and climate-friendly alternatives.
“We are not only fighting climate change but also creating opportunities, empowering youth, and shaping the future,” she remarked. Founder of Maple Solar Solutions, Mr. Mohammad Hassan, called the solar ovens “symbols of a cleaner future,” praising the enthusiasm of students and expressing hope for lasting change in rural communities. The ceremony was attended by senior university officials, faculty members, and students, including Dr Shafiq Ahmed Memon (Focal Person), Assistant Commissioner, Dean Dr Abdul Mubeen Laghari, Director University Advancement Dr Muhammad Ismail Kumbhar, Director ORIC Dr Tanveer Fatima Miano, and Director QEC Dr Saleem Masih Bhatti.
