ISLAMABAD: Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU) has launched a monsoon tree plantation campaign titled “Plant Trees, Beautify Pakistan” to combat the growing challenges of climate change, environmental pollution and rising temperatures while transforming its campus into a greener, healthier and more environmentally friendly space.
Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Nasir Mahmood formally inaugurated the campaign by planting a Chorisia tree at the central park in front of the Quality Enhancement Cell (QEC) building.
Deans of various faculties, the Registrar, principal officers and officials of the university’s Horticulture Section attended the plantation ceremony.
Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Dr. Nasir Mahmood said tree plantation was not merely an effort to beautify the surroundings but an investment in collective survival, a healthy society and a secure future.
He stressed that tree plantation should be embraced as a collective national responsibility to address the increasing impacts of climate change and environmental pollution.
The Vice Chancellor said the “Plant Trees, Beautify Pakistan” campaign was more than a slogan and represented a practical movement aimed at developing environmental responsibility among individuals and encouraging collective action for a greener Pakistan.
He noted that trees play a vital role in reducing air pollution, maintaining ecological balance, lowering temperatures and creating a healthier environment for future generations.
Prof. Dr. Nasir Mahmood also directed the Horticulture Section to accelerate preparations for establishing an “Artificial Forest” on the university campus. He said the initiative would enhance the environmental quality of the campus while providing a sustainable model for tree plantation.
During a briefing, Wajeeh-ul-Hassan, Horticulture Officer, Department of Agricultural Sciences, said 70 flowering plants were being planted at different locations across the university during the first phase of the campaign. A total target of 200 plants has been set for the monsoon plantation drive.
On the occasion, Prof. Dr. Irshad Ahmed Arshad said around 70 percent of the plants being used in the campaign had been prepared from plants already available at the university. He said producing saplings through the university’s own resources would make the plantation initiative more sustainable and demonstrate the effective use of available resources.
Later, the university’s Deans, Registrar and other principal officers also participated in the plantation activity and planted trees across the campus. They expressed their commitment to expanding plantation, landscaping and environmental protection initiatives at AIOU.
The campaign aims not only to increase the greenery and aesthetic value of the university campus but also to raise awareness among students, faculty members and employees about environmental responsibility, tree plantation and the importance of building a sustainable future.
The initiative reflects AIOU’s broader commitment to promoting environmental stewardship and encouraging practical climate action within its academic community.
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