61/25 University of Southern Punjab Multan Appreciates Insightful Analysis on Flood Resilience by Chairman PHEC

The University of Southern Punjab (USP) Multan extends its appreciation to Prof. Dr. Iqrar Ahmad Khan for his insightful article, “An Opportunity for Resilience”, published in The News. The piece highlights the urgent challenges posed by recent floods and outlines actionable pathways for rehabilitation, community resilience, and sustainable recovery.

Of note, the University of Southern Punjab is continually contributing towards supporting people in the floods affected areas and submitted three proposals to the Punjab Higher Education Commission focussing on climate change control measures that ultimately are mandatory to avoid flood- mediated destruction. These are collaborative projects with the Hisaar Foundation and the National Skills University Islamabad focussing on:

1. Ponds for life - Collecting water for sustainability and environment control.
2. AI-Mediated Pathways for a Greener and Sustainable Southern Punjab
3. Dengue Virus Evolution and Climate Stressors; A One Health Genomic Surveillance Approach 

Moreover, the Rector of the University is UNESCO-UNEVOC certified expert in the filed of Greening Skills in  Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET). He is also Editor in Chief of greening.live where experts can exchange their ideas relevant to flood controls and climate change associated resilience development.

Emphasizing the critical role of higher education institutions in national recovery efforts, USP announces its commitment to contribute to flood resilience initiatives actively aligning with provincial and national efforts. The University will:

• Mobilize faculty and research clusters to conduct applied studies on flood-affected agro-ecology, water management, post-flood food systems, and climate adaptation.
• Engage with government agencies and civil society to provide evidence-based recommendations, such as improved early warning systems, sustainable land use practices, and community-based disaster risk reduction strategies, for immediate relief and long-term rehabilitation.
• Equip students and faculty with the latest knowledge and skills, particularly in emerging technologies and artificial intelligence, to innovate solutions that address the evolving challenges of disaster management.
• Support community-focused programmes by providing technical expertise, resources, and networking opportunities, including training, awareness campaigns, and cooperative initiatives for sustainable livelihoods in flood-affected areas.

As outlined in Prof. Iqrar article, policymakers, and philanthropic partners to join this effort intellectually, morally, and financially for rehabilitating people suffering from flood damages. Your participation is crucial to ensure a coordinated and effective response that strengthens communities and the nation’s capacity for resilience.

The University of Southern Punjab alongwith other academic and non-academic organizations, government, and society can transform this challenge into an opportunity for sustainable development, innovation, and empowerment of our citizens.