Islamic University of Science and Technology Awantipore (IUST) Hosts Plantation Drive & Environmental Awareness Campaign to Promote Sustainability

The Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) organized a Plantation Drive and Environmental Awareness Campaign at its campus, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability and environmental conservation. The event was conducted by the Department of Environment, Sustainability & Climate Change in collaboration with the Social Forestry Department, Pulwama; Floriculture Department, Kashmir; and the Department of Ecology, Environment & Remote Sensing (DEERS).

Inauguration and Key Attendees

The event was inaugurated by Prof. Shakil A. Romshoo, Vice Chancellor of IUST, in the presence of key officials, faculty members, and students. Notable attendees included:

• Prof. Abdul Wahid Makdoomi, Registrar, IUST
• Prof. A.H. Moon, Dean Academics
• Prof. Humayun Rashid, Professor of Practice
• Prof. Parvez A. Mir, CEO, CIED
• Ms. Gazalla Abdullah, Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Social Forestry, Pulwama
• Shri Manzoor Ahmad Beig, Executive Engineer, R&B Pulwama
• Shri S. Iqbal Qurashi, Deputy Registrar, Estates
• Dr. Asifa Baba, Dean Students Welfare
• Dr. Sumira Nazir Zaz, Coordinator, Department of Environment, Sustainability & Climate Change
• Dr. Dharam Chand, Coordinator, Biodiversity & Aromatic Park
• Shri Sajad Ahmad Khaki, Mass Media Officer (DEERS)
• Dr. Yasir Altaf and Dr. Zubair Ahmad Dar, along with other faculty members, students, and field staff from the collaborating departments.

Speeches and Key Messages

During the event, Prof. Shakil A. Romshoo emphasized the urgent need for collective action to tackle climate change and environmental degradation. He highlighted the role of youth in environmental conservation and encouraged students to actively participate in green initiatives.

Prof. Humayun Rashid stressed the importance of academic institutions in fostering sustainability and promoting eco-friendly practices among students. He urged young minds to integrate environmental consciousness into their daily lives to ensure a sustainable future.

Plantation Drive and Environmental Awareness Campaign

As part of the environmental awareness campaign, the plantation drive at IUST aimed to promote tree plantation, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable environmental practices.

• The Floriculture Department provided 50 Chinar saplings for the drive.
• The Social Forestry Department contributed 250 Deodar saplings to the initiative.
• Students, faculty, and the local community actively participated, reinforcing the shared responsibility of creating a greener future.

The campaign is part of a larger sustainability initiative by the Department of Environment, Sustainability & Climate Change, which focuses on educating students about the importance of environmental conservation and promoting sustainable practices within and beyond the university campus.

Conclusion

The Plantation Drive and Environmental Awareness Campaign at IUST marked another milestone in the university’s sustainability efforts. By involving students, faculty, and local stakeholders, the initiative not only encouraged tree plantation but also strengthened the message of collective responsibility in protecting the environment.

With such proactive measures, IUST continues to play a pivotal role in promoting environmental consciousness and encouraging young minds to be active contributors to a sustainable and green future.

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