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Two events in September, co-hosted by Community World Service Asia (CWSA), held in Karachi and Hyderabad, brought together educators, civil society organisations (CSOs), development professionals, and public and private sector representatives to address climate-related challenges and strengthen institutional capacity in Sindh.

Empowering Educators to Lead Climate Action in Karachi

On September 30, 2025, CWSA partnered with the Teachers’ Resource Centre (TRC) to host a one-day event titled “Empowering Educators to Lead Climate Action for a Sustainable Future” at the TRC campus in Karachi. The gathering brought together a diverse audience of teachers, coordinators, education officers from public and private schools, and representatives from the corporate, finance sector and other organisations.

The event opened with a keynote address by Ambreena Ahmed, Director of TRC, who emphasised the critical role educators play in advancing climate action aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 13.

A lively panel discussion followed, featuring climate activist Afia Salam, development expert Naveed Ahmed Shaikh, gender justice and localisation advocate Plawashay Arbab, environmental entrepreneur Ahmed Shabbar, incubation head Raza Abbas, and youth leader Rizwan Jaffar. Together, they explored climate education, Karachi’s environmental challenges, and innovative solutions for climate-responsive learning.

The panel discussion focused on how climate awareness must evolve as a ground-up movement, beginning from schools. Speakers stressed the importance of empowering school administrators with the authority to implement tangible measures, reflecting the kind of responsibility often reserved for government bodies. The discussion emphasized the need to educate and engage the most receptive segment of society, the youth, the generation soon to take the lead and bear the brunt of it.

Climate Activist Afia Salam shared, “Climate change should not merely pertain to ecological areas, or be limited to geography or environmental lessons, but should be prioritised across every facet of schooling, as all are equally affected, be it physical activity, design thinking, or critical analysis. A country like Pakistan has faced massive flooding catastrophes in its history, the most devastating being in 2022, when more than half of Pakistan was submerged. Now you tell me, how many children know swimming as a basic life skill?”
Afia left the audience with a reflective question, it is not a one-time lecture to be discussed casually during free periods; rather, it is a responsibility that every teacher owes to their students, to convey the weight and urgency of the issue.

Ahmad Shabbar, leading a waste recycling organisation, shed light on how small individual efforts can collectively lead to significant change. He shared a short story about receiving thousands of books and papers meant to be recycled. Instead of discarding them, his team distributed them among underserved children who had little access to water, let alone books. He also recounted how, after floods destroyed several schools, they built small libraries out of recycled bottles, wrappers, and plastics, structures just as strong as concrete ones.

He attributed much of the environmental gap and disparity to a growing disconnect, a disconnect from nature, from the environment, and from one’s surroundings.

Raza Abbas, the Incubation head at the renowned Institute of Business Management, reiterated an emerging phenomenon: climate-tech startups. He reflected on the broader state of Pakistan and its people. How, over time, systemic inefficiencies have alienated many from observing civic discipline, whether in traffic regulations or adherence to policies. Years of frustration with governance and societal systems, he noted, have led to disengagement and apathy toward issues like climate change.

“But the thing is,” he emphasised, “both go hand in hand, and we must focus on leaving the world better than it was before.” He further highlighted the significance of teacher participation, noting that youth remain the most affected population when it comes to climate change and should be the ones most prepared.

Strengthening Strategic Planning for Climate CSOs in Hyderabad

In Hyderabad, CWSA joined hands with the Global Network of Civil Society Organisations for Disaster Reduction (GNDR) to co-host a one-day learning event titled “Funding & Developing Strategy for Climate CSOs in Sindh” at the CSOs Club. The event convened CSO leaders, parliamentarians, academics, and representatives from the public, private, and corporate sectors to discuss strategic planning, resource mobilisation, and institutional sustainability.

Advocate Saima Agha, MPA and Chairperson of the Standing Committee on Sports and Youth Affairs, Government of Sindh, addressed the closing session, highlighting the shrinking civic space and the need for policy and legal support to enable CSOs to fulfill their development roles effectively.

The event featured thematic presentations by experts including Khadim Dahot (SEWA Trust), Danish Batool (CWSA), and Kashif Siddiqui (CARD), who shared insights on funding landscapes, locally led initiatives, and strategic planning. A panel discussion moderated by Amarta included voices from BASIC Development Foundation and the Social Welfare Department of Sindh.

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) was also a key focus, with contributions from Abid Ali Gaho (OGDCL), Asim Ahmed (Askari Bank), and Ghulam Abbas Khoso (GEF CSOs Network), who discussed the private sector’s role in supporting social development through CSOs.

Tahira Joyo, who moderated the event, summarised key reflections and emphasized the importance of strategic planning in adapting to climate challenges and evolving development needs.

Several participants shared their reflections on inclusion, participation, and accountability within climate strategies. One attendee noted: “Our climate strategies will remain incomplete until we actively bring women to the planning table. At the local level, women are not just victims of climate change, they are custodians of knowledge on water, food, and energy. A truly resilient Sindh requires funding and programs that are designed with women, not just for them. When our plans are gender-inclusive, our communities become climate-proof.”

Another attendee representing a local climate advocacy group added a perspective of youth: “While we demand larger systemic change, we cannot overlook the power of our individual actions. Every plastic bottle we refuse, every tap we close, and every native plant we grow is a vote for the future we want to see. Responsibility doesn’t start with governments or corporations alone, it starts in our homes, our universities, and our local communities. We, the youth, are not just leaders of tomorrow; we are the accountable citizens of today.”

A Shared Commitment to Climate Resilience

Through these two events, Community World Service Asia reaffirmed its commitment to fostering inclusive dialogue, capacity enhancement, and collaborative action for climate resilience. By empowering educators and strengthening CSOs, we are helping shape a more sustainable and responsive future for communities across Sindh.

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After witnessing decades of traditional cold winters and pleasant mild summers, erratic weather patterns have become a recurring reality. Homes that once needed no fans or air conditioners are now unbearably hot in the summer. Winters bring less snow, summers are warmer, signaling the broader climate crisis threatening the region’s fragile ecosystem and agricultural viability.

Gulkin, nestled in the heart of Upper Hunza, is renowned for its breathtaking beauty, most notably the iconic Passu Cones of the Karakoram range. It stands near Gulmit, the cultural hub of Gojal Valley, known for its history and awe inspiring landscapes. Yet, like many mountain communities, the region has grown increasingly vulnerable to the effects of climate change.

Saeed Arab Shah, a 61-year-old prominent Community member, farmer, and a businessman has lived a lifetime in the village Gulkin in Gojal, Hunza.Saeed Arab Shah, a 61-year-old prominent Community member, farmer, and a businessman has lived a lifetime in the village Gulkin in Gojal, Hunza.

In response to the challenges faced by northern communities, Community World Service Asia (CWSA), in partnership with the Forest Department Hunza, recently organized a collaborative plantation drive in Gulkin and Gulmit. The initiative brought together 35 participants, including students, local leaders, government officials, and community members. For Arab Shah, the enthusiastic involvement of youth reflected a growing generational commitment to environmental protection and civic responsibility.

A passionate advocate for community capacity building, Arab Shah has long emphasized the importance of grassroots efforts. He believes tree plantation carries drastic long-term benefits such as reduced soil erosion, water conservation, and strengthening of the region’s natural ecosystem. However, he also expresses concern over the unregulated cutting of trees for domestic and commercial use, which makes the land more susceptible and prone to landslides, floods, and other climate-induced hazards. He asserts that afforestation can rejuvenate soil, improve air quality, conserve water resources, and help restore the region’s natural ecosystem.

A strong advocate for inclusive development, Arab Shah underscores the crucial role of women in fostering sustainable and resilient communities. He believes that empowering women and integrating their leadership into local decision-making processes is, in his view, essential for lasting change. People of Northern Pakistan have long valued women’s contributions in environmental, educational, and economic spheres, and Arab Shah believes this legacy must be strengthened further as it not only enhances community outcomes but also ensures more balanced and inclusive development.

Reflecting on the plantation drive, Saeed Arab Shah highlighted the high level of community engagement as the most inspiring aspect of the initiative. The participation of youth and families from diverse backgrounds created a strong sense of unity, purpose, and collective responsibility. This shared effort not only deepened participants’ connection to their land but also sparked a renewed determination to protect and preserve their natural environment.

Looking ahead, Arab Shah envisions a future where community-led initiatives, such as tree plantation, awareness sessions, and the promotion of sustainable agricultural practices become routine. He particularly advocates for initiatives that actively engage schools, youth, and women’s groups, reinforcing the benefit that could be gained after utilizing maximum community engagement due to the participation of women fostering a culture of environmental consciousness and civic responsibility from the ground up.

The recent plantation drive concluded on a pleasant and optimistic note. Participants, especially the young, expressed a profound sense of fulfillment, purpose, and redirection to continue working together for a greener and more resilient Hunza. For Arab Shah and his fellow community members, this initiative marked a meaningful step toward combating the local impacts of climate change and restoring the natural beauty and ecological balance of the Gojal Valley.

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A Learning Event Hosted by Community World Service Asia – Lahore, 9th September 2025

Community World Service Asia convened a timely and impactful learning event in Lahore on September 9th, 2025, bringing together key stakeholders to explore actionable strategies for Punjab’s climate resilience. Titled “Strategising Punjab’s Climate Roadmap: Policy, Practice & Partnership,” the event served as a dynamic platform for dialogue, collaboration, and forward-thinking solutions.

With climate-induced disasters escalating across Pakistan, the urgency to align policy with practice has never been greater. This learning event brought together representatives from government departments, humanitarian organisations, academia, and civil society to examine how integrated approaches can strengthen provincial climate adaptation and disaster risk reduction efforts.

Key Highlights:

  • Policy Alignment & Gaps: Participants reviewed existing climate policies and frameworks, identifying critical gaps in implementation and coordination across sectors.
  • Localising Climate Action: Emphasis was placed on community-led adaptation, with discussions on how local knowledge and inclusive planning can inform provincial strategies.
  • Strengthening Partnerships: The event fostered cross-sector collaboration, encouraging stronger linkages between humanitarian actors, government bodies, and technical experts.
  • Practical Tools & Innovations: Attendees explored practical tools for climate risk mapping, early warning systems, and safeguarding mechanisms tailored to Punjab’s diverse geography and vulnerabilities.

Voices from the Field: Participants shared insights from their respective contexts, highlighting the need for:

  • Gender-responsive climate programming
  • Youth engagement in climate advocacy
  • Strengthening institutional capacities for long-term resilience

Why This Matters:

This learning event marks a significant step toward building a cohesive and inclusive climate roadmap for Punjab. By bridging policy with practice and fostering meaningful partnerships, Community World Service Asia is helping shape a future where climate resilience is not just a goal, but a shared responsibility.

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Online Learning Session | Thursday, 25th September 2025

Community World Service Asia, in collaboration with the Asian Disaster Reduction and Response Network (ADRRN), is pleased to host an interactive webinar designed to deepen understanding of regional disaster risk reduction efforts.

Session Title: Introduction to ADRRN & Its Role in Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR)

Time: 1:30-3:00 (Pakistan Time) | 17:30 – 19:00 (Tokyo time) | 16:30 – 18:00 (Manila time) | 15:30 – 17:00 (Bangkok time)

This session will explore ADRRN’s mission, structure, and its strategic contributions to building resilience across Asia. Participants will gain insights into how NGOs, government bodies, academic institutions, and donors can engage with the ACDRRM Hub and support locally led, innovative solutions for disaster preparedness and response.

Featured Speakers:

  • Mr. Takeshi Komino, Secretary General, ADRRN & Country Representative, CWS Japan
  • Ms. Mayfourth Luneta, Deputy Executive Director, ADRRN

Whether you’re a practitioner, policymaker, researcher, or humanitarian actor, this session offers valuable perspectives on advancing climate adaptation and strengthening regional collaboration.

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On April 30, 2025, Hunza Public School became a vibrant hub of intergenerational learning, as students and community elders came together with a shared commitment to climate awareness. In partnership with Community World Service Asia (CWSA), the school hosted a Climate Change Education & Awareness event that highlighted the transformative potential of youth activism and community-led engagement.

The event brought together students, teachers, and local leaders for a dynamic dialogue on environmental stewardship, glacier preservation, and sustainable living. Guests from Act Church of Sweden and Community World Service Asia (CWSA) joined the gathering, highlighting the transformative role of education in fostering climate-resilient communities.

A traditional welcome ceremony, rooted in the customs of Gilgit-Baltistan, honored the guests with pharsin, locally crafted caps worn by both men and women. The cultural exchange continued with folklore songs recounting the ancient legacy of the region’s glaciers, followed by a spirited dance performed jointly by elders and youth.

Students voiced their concerns with passion and clarity, speaking on the urgent threats of global warming, glacier retreat, and climate-induced disasters. Their discussions reflected not only the gravity of the challenges but also the ingenuity and commitment needed to overcome them.

“Our glaciers are vanishing faster than our leaders are acting. If we don’t push for clean energy and water conservation today, our children will inherit a barren land,” shared Farida, a Grade 8 student.

Naema, a Class 7 student, spoke with passion, “Climate change isn’t just science; it is our reality. Last year’s floods destroyed homes. We need schools to teach survival skills, not just theories.” Her words echoed the lived experiences of many in the region, underscoring the urgency of climate education rooted in real-world resilience.

The event featured a satirical play titled “Our Planet Earth,” in which extraterrestrial visitors confronted humanity for its environmental negligence. The performance concluded with a dramatic ultimatum: offer solutions or surrender the planet. The message was clear and compelling; the time to act is now.

Students also presented innovative scientific models focused on climate adaptation. From water filtration and slope stabilisation to rainwater harvesting, biodiversity conservation, and green school initiatives, their projects reflected both creativity and a deep commitment to sustainable living.

“Our students are well aware of climate change and its solutions. What they need is support and facilities to develop these ideas and emerge as future decision-makers,” highlighted Memoona, senior teacher and focal person at Hunza Public School.

“Our ancestors said glaciers and peaks are bound in eternal union. The mountains provide strength, the glaciers give water. Now this union is failing because we broke our covenant with nature. This is the time to act, by harnessing the power of youth through education and community support,” added Nazia Zafar, CWSA staff in Hunza, citing the wisdom of indigenous traditions.

A Pledge for a Sustainable Future

With CWSA’s continued commitment to climate education, students left the event not only informed but inspired, ready to champion sustainable practices, safeguard their glaciers, and lead transformative change within their communities.

The Earth’s future is in our hands — and the time to act is now.

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On July 3, 2025, Community World Service Asia (CWSA) organised a transformative Climate Change Learning Event titled ‘Climate Action in Gilgit Baltistan: Opportunities for a Resilient Future’ at Karakoram International University (KIU) in Gilgit, bringing together climate change experts, local stakeholders, and students to address the pressing challenges of climate change in Gilgit-Baltistan. The event, attended by a diverse audience, emphasised the urgent need for education, community-led solutions, and collaborative action to build resilience in one of the world’s most climate-vulnerable regions.

Dr. Sajjad Ali, Associate Professor and Director of Academics at KIU, delivered the welcome address, urging young students to act. “It is a form of disrespect against nature to not take action towards climate change efforts,” he stated, highlighting Pakistan’s vulnerability as one of the top 10 countries affected by climate change. He noted a critical barrier, “We are among the lowest to benefit from climate change funds due to a lack of education, awareness, and advocacy.” Dr. Ali proposed investing in youth education as a key solution to this global crisis.

Takashi Komino of the Asian Disaster Response and Reduction Network (ADRRN) emphasised the prevalence of floods and storms as the most frequent disasters in Asia. He advocated for community-led strategies, stating, “We need to turn technical science into people’s science, reaching communities in ways they understand.” Despite a brief internet disruption, his message resonated, underscoring the importance of accessible, community-driven approaches.

Khadim Hussain, Director of the Environmental Protection Agency, highlighted the value of youth and indigenous knowledge. “We have faced numerous challenges, but we are still surviving. Together, we can take collective action,” he said, advocating for natural resource-based solutions and increased awareness efforts by NGOs.

Nishanie Jayamaha, a climate expert, stressed the need for community-aligned strategies. “We must constantly evaluate if our strategies are helping and working with communities. Misaligned approaches can cause harm,” she cautioned, urging organisations to prioritise community needs to avoid unintended consequences.

Dr Iftikhar Ali, Senator at KIU emphasised on active participation and contribution of local governments, he shared that “Local governments play a vital role in building climate-resilient and sustainable communities by implementing green policies, promoting renewable energy, and ensuring infrastructure can withstand climate impacts”.

Dr. Farasat Ali of World Wildlife Fund Pakistan shared alarming data, noting that climate change costs Pakistan $30 billion annually. He highlighted the risks posed by 33 of the 3,044 glacial lakes in northern Pakistan, classified as hazardous zones for extreme flooding, threatening lives and economic stability. “Increased water temperatures will also affect freshwater sources, impacting fishing and farming,” he added, emphasising the widespread impact across urban and rural communities.

Tabinda Jabeen from the Teacher Resource Center underscored the role of education in preparing Pakistan’s youth for a climate-challenged future. “Children and youth are our future. We must share knowledge and collaborate to equip them for the world we are leaving behind,” she said.

A KIU student studying climate change offered a compelling perspective, suggesting, “We should use local languages instead of English to educate communities and incorporate indigenous knowledge into community-based adaptation efforts for greater success.”

Dr. Shaukat Ali of KIU delivered a powerful closing statement: “Climate change is no longer a distant threat. It is here, and it is very real.”

The event culminated in a significant milestone, the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between CWSA, and the Vice Chancellor of KIU, on behalf of the Gilgit-Baltistan government. This MoU formalises a commitment to collaborate on climate change education and resilience-building initiatives, marking a promising step for CWSA and the communities of northern Pakistan facing escalating climate challenges.

This event, supported by partnerships with KIU and other stakeholders, reflects CWSA’s dedication to fostering dialogue, raising awareness, and driving collective action to address climate change in Gilgit-Baltistan. By empowering youth, integrating indigenous knowledge, and strengthening local collaborations, CWSA continues to pave the way for a more resilient and sustainable future.

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In the scenic valley of Golkin, Hunza, a powerful movement has taken root; one that blends environmental stewardship with a celebration of women’s roles in community resilience. Launched in collaboration with the Forest Department of Gilgit Baltistan, the “One Daughter, One Tree” (Aik Bete, Aik Shajar) plantation drive marks a significant step in combating climate change through afforestation.

This initiative, supported by Community World Service Asia’s Climate Education and Awareness Program and funded by Week of Compassion, goes beyond tree planting. It is a tribute to daughters, mothers, and grandmothers, honouring their contributions while fostering environmental consciousness among students and local communities.

As Gulnaaz, a woman farmer from the region, shared, “We are planting hope. We are honouring nature. We are celebrating women and teaching our children to protect what sustains us.”

The urgency of this campaign is underscored by the increasing frequency of floods and glacier retreat in the region. A representative from the Forest Department emphasised the critical need for afforestation to safeguard Hunza’s fragile ecosystem and raise public awareness about sustainable practices.

This event is the first in a series of plantation drives planned across more than 25 public and private schools, engaging youth and communities in long-term climate adaptation efforts.

Among the young changemakers is Safina, a passionate student from Al Amin Model School in Gulmit, Gojal. Having witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of glacier melt and flooding in her valley, Safina joined the plantation drive with a clear purpose; to contribute to a greener, more resilient future.

Her actions speak volumes. By planting trees and advocating for climate awareness, Safina is not only protecting her community but also inspiring her peers to take ownership of their environment. Her story is a testament to the power of individual action in addressing global challenges.

As Hunza’s youth and elders unite under the banner of climate resilience, CWSA remains committed to supporting locally led solutions that protect both people and the planet. Together, these efforts are sowing the seeds of sustainability—one daughter, one tree at a time.

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As climate extremes intensify across Pakistan, vulnerable communities are bearing the brunt of rising temperatures, erratic rainfall, and environmental degradation. This short video captures firsthand reflections from local residents and civil society on how climate change is reshaping their lives, livelihoods, and landscapes. Produced by Community World Service Asia & Leigh Larson, Week of Compassion, the film amplifies voices from the frontlines, calling for urgent, inclusive action to build resilience and protect those most at risk.

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As part of our integrated DRR and WASH project in Umerkot, newly constructed water supply schemes were officially inaugurated and handed over to local communities in partnership with government line departments. This symbolic and practical milestone not only marks the successful completion of the project but also ensures community ownership, long-term sustainability, and strengthened collaboration with local authorities.

Building Resilience Restoring Lives:

In 2024, Community World Service Asia, with support from CWSA Japan and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Japan, successfully implemented an integrated Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) and Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) project in the flood-affected villages of District Umerkot, Sindh.

This initiative empowered vulnerable farming communities to bounce back stronger from recurring floods by improving agricultural practices, restoring safe water access, and enhancing community preparedness. By combining climate-resilient farming techniques with essential WASH services, the project strengthened both livelihoods and long-term resilience across disaster-prone communities.

Empowering Communities Sustaining Futures

A major component of the initiative involved constructing over 6 kilometres of lined water channels, along with 12 strategically located water reservoirs. These infrastructure developments aim to optimise water conservation and management—crucial for sustaining agriculture in this arid and flood-prone region.

Harnessing Water, Harvesting Prosperity

As a result, more land is now under irrigation, increasing agricultural productivity by up to 60%, which contributes to boosting local food production and economic stability.

The project also supported the establishment of communal nurseries, which have been supplied with
agricultural inputs. The seedlings produced are distributed among community members to develop their own kitchen gardens, contributing to household-level food security and improved dietary diversity.

As a result, households are now more self-reliant in meeting their food needs while also improving their nutritional intake.

The ceremony underscored the community-driven nature of the project, with government representatives highlighting the importance of such initiatives in addressing critical regional challenges, including climate change and water scarcity.

Upon the successful completion of the project, the constructed schemes were officially handed over to the communities in the presence of relevant government departments, ensuring their sustainability and operational effectiveness.

Climate-Ready Communities

Community World Service Asia acknowledged the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders—including the government, its partners, and the community—and reaffirmed their shared commitment to fostering sustainable agriculture, climate resilience, and promoting community-led development.

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Last year, we traveled to the Thar region of Umerkot to document the transformative impact of the Humanitarian Assistance, Early Recovery, and Development (HERD) Project, supported by Canadian Foodgrain Bank (CFGB) and Presbytarian World Service and Development. (PWS&D). Through our lens, we captured stories of resilience, hope, and progress. Six months later, we returned to the village to share the documentary with the very people whose lives it portrayed. The entire community came together to witness their own stories unfold on screen—a moment of reflection, empowerment, and collective strength.

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