Sukkur: The Department of Zoology, Shah Abdul Latif University (SALU), Khairpur organized a thematic workshop titled “See the World Through Their Eyes” at Allama I. I. Qazi Hall on the occasion of World Animal Day on Friday. The workshop was attended by faculty members, Deans, Directors and students of the University. The objective of the event was to create awareness about animal welfare, wildlife conservation and environmental issues from the perspective of animals and the natural environment.
Professor Dr. Yousuf Khushk, Vice Chancellor, Shah Abdul Latif University, was the chief guest on the occasion. He stressed upon students, society and national and international institutions to recognize the conservation of biodiversity as a collective responsibility, as it is directly linked to human survival, food security and environmental health.
He said that Sindh itself is a “living laboratory of biodiversity,” where the Indus River Dolphin near Sukkur highlights the importance of conserving an endangered species, while the vultures of Nagarparkar remind us of nature’s vital cleansing system. He said that the mangrove trees of the Indus Delta, fish, shrimp, fishermen’s livelihoods and the coastal ecosystem are all interconnected.
He encouraged students to document the birds, animals, insects, plants and aquatic life around them, because a species that seems insignificant today may play an extraordinary role in the ecosystem in the future.
VC appealed to society, policymakers, the United Nations and relevant international organizations to further strengthen cooperation with universities for wildlife conservation, biodiversity research and environmental education. He said universities should convert knowledge into practical action and research into solutions to problems.
The Dean, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Prof. Dr. Mushtaque Ali Jakhrani participated as guest of honor, while Chairman, Department of Zoology, Dr. Javed Ahmed Ujjan hosted the session.
Deputy Conservator, Sindh Wildlife Department, Sukkur and renowned conservationist Mir Ijaz Hussain Talpur was the special guest, while Assistant Professor, Department of Zoology, Dr. Zeb-un-Nisa Memon was the focal person of the event.
Mir Ijaz Hussain Talpur said that birds and animals are extremely important for human survival and agriculture. He said, “These birds protect our agriculture by eating harmful insects. These creatures play an important role in maintaining the ecological balance of the world. We have damaged the habitats of birds and wildlife for petty gains. We should work together and protect wildlife by conserving our forests.” He assured that the Wildlife Department will continue its efforts to resolve these issues.
Prof. Dr. Mushtaque Ali Jakhrani appreciated the efforts of the Department of Zoology and said that conservation of the natural environment is essential for human survival. He said, “Animals cannot speak, but we should feel their emotions.”
The focal person of the workshop, Dr. Zeb-un-Nisa Memon highlighted the importance of World Animal Day and stressed the need to create maximum awareness regarding animal welfare, wildlife conservation and collective responsibility. She thanked Vice Chancellor Dr. Yousuf Khushk for his patronage and continuous support for academic and environmental activities.
Chairman, Department of Zoology, Dr. Javed Ahmed Ujjan welcomed the guests and, highlighting the importance of World Animal Day, said that the objective of the department is to promote research, quality education in animal sciences and a culture of respect for wildlife.
During the event, a documentary prepared by SALU students on the topic of animal protection was also screened.
Several prominent faculty members of the university attended the workshop, including Prof. Dr. Khalida Mahar, Prof. Dr. Mir Muhammad Ali Talpur, Prof. Dr. Shamroz Sahito, Prof. Dr. Gul Afshan, Prof. Dr. Tajnees Pirzada, Prof. Dr. Hisamuddin Shaikh, Dr. Muzaffar Sarohi, Dr. Sajjad Larak, Dr. Shaista Pathan, Dr. Fakhra Soomro, Dr. Shazia Solangi, Dr. Aamir Mallah, Dr. Tahira Jatt, Dr. Sahib Oad, Dr. Fozia, Dr. Qurrat-ul-Ain, Dr. Faheem Jatoi, Irfan Memon and Dr. Wali Muhammad, while a large number of students also participated.
At the conclusion of the ceremony, the institution’s commitment to wildlife conservation, biodiversity protection and animal welfare was reiterated.