The Institute for Global Health and Development (IGHD) at Aga Khan University, in collaboration with the Pakistan Academy of Sciences (PAS) and the Centre for Economic Research in Pakistan (CERP), organized the Collaborative Symposium on Climate Change and Health & Development Consequences in Pakistan: Challenges and Opportunities. Held at the Pakistan Academy of Sciences in Islamabad, the event brought together experts, policymakers, and stakeholders to discuss the growing impacts of climate change on Pakistan’s health, agriculture, and economic stability.
The Honorable Minister Ahsan Iqbal, chief guest at the symposium, emphasized:
“No politician, no judge, no institution alone has the solution to climate change. The answer lies with the scientific and technological community, and facilitating a multidisciplinary approach is a key priority for the government.”
The symposium addressed Pakistan’s critical climate challenges, including water insecurity, air pollution, and agricultural inefficiencies. Experts discussed the urgent need for sustainable solutions to safeguard vulnerable populations and the nation’s future development. The event also underscored the importance of innovative technologies, such as drone imaging and geospatial monitoring, and structural changes that incorporate indigenous knowledge.
The symposium concluded with a call for a coordinated, evidence-based approach to tackle climate change, with a focus on research and governance. The collaborative efforts of IGHD, PAS, and CERP aim to drive transformative action to mitigate the climate crisis and build a sustainable future for Pakistan.
