RAWALPINDI: Accountability Lab Pakistan in collaboration with the Fatima Jinnah Women University Rawalpindi and Canada Fund for Local Initiatives , organized a three-day bootcamp from October 3rd to October 5th, focusing on fostering youth leadership in climate change mitigation.
During the bootcamp, the students were engaged in interactive sessions, and hands-on activities designed to enhance their understanding of climate change, its impacts, and potential solutions. Students were encouraged to explore their role as future leaders and change-makers dedicated to protecting the environment. Participants also worked in groups on climate change-related projects, encouraging collaboration and innovative problem-solving. The bootcamp also facilitated networking among participants and experts, creating a supportive community for young emerging leaders passionate about advocating for climate justice.
“The future of our planet lies in the hands of the next generation, and it is important that we empower the youth with the necessary knowledge, skills, tools, and opportunities to lead towards a sustainable greener future. In Pakistan, the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives is partnering with climate activists, NGOs, and civil society, to actively engage with the youth of Pakistan, sensitizing them to the critical conversations surrounding environmental action and climate change.
Our mission goes beyond that. Canada also supports the inclusion of women and girls in designing and developing strategic responses to climate change. We are dedicated to ensuring that climate-related planning, policy-making, and financing are finely attuned to the unique needs and challenges faced by women and girls. The strength of our collective action lies in embracing the voices of our youth, and ensuring that women and girls stand at the forefront of climate solutions. By working together, we can translate our collective commitment into actions and lasting change that benefits everyone, High Commissioner of Canada, H.E. Leslie Scanlon.
“Pakistan has been in the top ten bracket of the Climate Change vulnerability index for almost over a decade and a half. We do not see a corresponding conversation in society in the society as an awareness of the threat level. Time has come to break the barrier of preaching to the converted and inform other segments of the society to understand the threat and learn the importance of adaptation.” reiterated Afia Salam- the lead trainer for the eco-bootcamp.
Farhan Khalid, Program Manager, Accountability Lab, remarked that “empowering youth with knowledge and leadership skills is crucial to addressing the global climate crises. This boot camp empowers youth to take a leading role in addressing climate change. It’s a vital step towards building a generation actively engaged in sustainable practices”.
