By SYED SHAHABUDDIN
SWAT — A plantation drive was organised at the University of Agriculture Swat on Wednesday in collaboration with the district forest office to promote environmental sustainability and encourage tree plantation.
The event brought together officials from the forest department, faculty members, administrative staff and a large number of students, who planted saplings across the university campus as part of the afforestation initiative.
Additional Assistant Commissioner Swat Shehryar Ahmad attended the ceremony as chief guest. Addressing participants, he appreciated the university’s efforts and urged students to play an active role in protecting the environment. He said community participation and individual responsibility were essential for long-term environmental protection.
Prof Dr Jamal Khan and Dr Roshan Ali, Director of the Agriculture Research Institute Mingora, highlighted the importance of collaboration between academic institutions and government departments in achieving sustainable forestry and conservation goals. They emphasized that environmental awareness campaigns and practical initiatives such as plantation drives help strengthen community engagement.
Deputy Director Dr Mian Ahmad Raza and Coordinator Dr Shah Saud of the Directorate of Outreach and Student Affairs reiterated the university’s commitment to promoting green initiatives and building partnerships aimed at environmental conservation and sustainable development in the region.
Organizers said the plantation drive is part of ongoing efforts to encourage environmental responsibility among students and contribute to broader afforestation goals in Swat.
