By: Shehneela Mazhar
At the heart of every great change lies a determined individual who strives to make a difference in their community and beyond. One such inspiring figure is our esteemed alumna, Zainab Gohar, Global UGrad alumna, a shining example of what passion, dedication, and a collaborative spirit can achieve. Through her exceptional U.S. government-funded Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund (AEIF) project, “Green and Blue Quetta,” Zainab successfully planted an astounding 10,000 saplings across 5 hectares of land in Quetta. Her journey towards a greener and more sustainable city is a testament to the power of community engagement and environmental stewardship.
With the aim of transforming Quetta into a thriving, green city, and having graduated from the Global Undergraduate Exchange Program (Global UGrad), Zainab was fueled by her time in the United States, where she learned about environmental sustainability and community-led initiatives.
The project’s success can be attributed to Zainab’s visionary approach in engaging a diverse range of stakeholders. Her collaboration with local communities, educational institutions, government organizations, and a network of one hundred volunteers from various organizations played a pivotal role in achieving the remarkable feat of planting 10,000 saplings.
The closing event of “Green and Blue Quetta” witnessed the presence of influential figures, including Conservator to Forest and Wildlife, Mr. Niaz Khan Kakar, and Spokesperson to Chief Minister Balochistan and IVLP alumnus Babar Yousafzai. Their attendance symbolized the government’s endorsement and support for climate change initiatives aimed at making Quetta cleaner and greener.
As a mark of ensuring the continuity of the project’s efforts, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed, officially handing over the responsibilities of “Green and Blue Quetta” to the Department of Forest. This strategic move guarantees the continued growth and nurturing of the planted trees, preserving Quetta’s natural heritage for generations to come.
Zainab’s dedication to a sustainable future has left an indelible mark on Quetta. Beyond the sheer number of saplings planted, the project has raised awareness about environmental conservation and climate action. By involving various stakeholders, it has fostered a sense of ownership and responsibility among the local communities, encouraging them to actively contribute to the city’s transformation.
“Green and Blue Quetta” is not merely a tree-planting initiative; it is a testament to the power of individual action, community collaboration, and the enduring spirit of our PUAN alumni. Zainab’s journey serves as an inspiration for others, demonstrating that change is possible when driven by passion and united efforts.
Zainab Gohar’s exceptional achievements through “Green and Blue Quetta” exemplifies the impact that PUAN alumni can make in their communities. As we celebrate her success, let us draw inspiration from her journey and continue to strive for a greener, more sustainable Pakistan.
Together, we can nurture a future where environmental stewardship is a way of life, and collective action paves the way for transformative change. Let the story of “Green and Blue Quetta” be a beacon of hope for a brighter and greener Pakistan.
