Ayesha Zafar
Islamabad—20 July 2024 — On 19 July 2024 , the Faculty of Sciences at Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU) Islamabad hosted an engaging and impactful Swish Activity in the Environmental Sciences Department. The event was organized by MPhil Environmental Science students with the enthusiastic support of the Head of Department (HOD) Dr. Sofia Khalid and dedicated faculty members Dr. Almas, Dr. Samia, Dr.sapna and Dr. Hajra.
The Swish Activity was designed to foster environmental awareness and promote sustainable practices among students and the broader community. The event saw a diverse group of nearly 100 attendees, including participants from various departments of AIOU and visitors from outside the university. The presence of such a wide array of participants underscored the broad interest in environmental stewardship and the communal effort to embrace sustainable living.
Dr. Sofia Khalid, HOD of the Environmental Sciences Department, highlighted the significance of collective action in addressing environmental issues. “Our objective is to engage students and the community in activities emphasizing the importance of environmental conservation. This Swish Activity reflects the dedication and creativity of our MPhil students,” she remarked. Faculty members Dr. Almas, Dr. Samia, Dr.sapna, and Dr. Hajra were also pivotal in the event’s success, providing invaluable guidance and support to ensure the activity was educational and enjoyable for all participants.
A central feature of the Swish Activity was the inclusion of waste materials, particularly household items, in the various displays and activities. Students showcased an array of materials, including books, jewelry, clothes, and other items, on well-organized stalls. These items were displayed as part of an exchange program, allowing participants to swap items with each other. This aspect of the activity highlighted the practical application of reusing and recycling everyday items, promoting a circular economy, and reducing waste.
The Swish Activity also featured various exhibits that displayed projects and research conducted by the Environmental Sciences Department. These exhibits underscored the department’s commitment to advancing environmental science and fostering a culture of sustainability within the university community.
Feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing their appreciation for the valuable insights and practical knowledge gained from the event. “This activity has shown me the many ways we can contribute to environmental conservation,” said one participant. “It’s inspiring to see the dedication of the students and faculty in promoting sustainable practices.” The event also provided a platform for networking and collaboration, allowing students from different departments to interact, share ideas, and explore potential collaborations on future environmental projects.
Building on the success of the Swish Activity, the Environmental Sciences Department at AIOU plans to organize similar events in the future. Dr. Sofia Khalid announced that the department is committed to continuing its efforts to raise environmental awareness and promote sustainable practices through various initiatives and activities.
In conclusion, the Swish Activity at Allama Iqbal Open University Islamabad was a resounding success, thanks to the dedication of the MPhil Environmental Science students and the unwavering support of the faculty members. The event educated and engaged participants and reinforced the university’s commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability.
