Beaconhouse National University (BNU)

The School of Education launched its Expert Edge Series with an insightful panel discussion titled "Fashion Footprint: Sustainability in Style" on October 29, 2024, moderated by Ms. Naureen Zaman, assistant professor and series coordinator. Prof. Dr. Amra Raza, Dean of the School of Education, opened the event with a warm welcome. The esteemed panel featured sustainability expert and climate activist Mr. Jawad Sohail; Mr. Ali Hassan from Serena Textiles; designer Ms. Saman Arif of Nayna Fashion House; CEO Mr. Sarim Mehmood of Fruits of Sustainability; and human rights lawyer Mr. Salman Jameel. The discussion covered the fashion industry's environmental impact, labor rights, and the role of consumers in fostering sustainable practices. Ms. Naureen guided the conversation with compelling questions that highlighted the industry's critical challenges and solutions. The event concluded with a vote of thanks from Ms. Shabana Ahmed, head of MPhil Linguistics and TESOL, and panelists were gifted Neem Tree Seedlings and other meaningful souvenirs, symbolizing the event's commitment to sustainability.

The discussion was expertly moderated by Dr. Farooq Suleheria, Assistant Professor at SLASS. Distinguished panelists included Dr. Akmal Hussain, Professor at BNU’s School of Management Sciences, and Dr. Yunus Samad, Professor of South Asian Studies at LUMS. Each offered thought-provoking perspectives on Pakistan’s socio-political landscape, aligning with the themes of Dr. Kamran’s book. SLASS extends its gratitude to all who contributed to this enlightening event. Dr. Kamran’s book, coupled with the panel’s insights, offered students and attendees a deeper understanding of Pakistan's intricate history and the ongoing challenges shaping its future.

Ambassador Hashmi emphasized that while political diplomacy forms the foundation of bilateral relations, genuine understanding between nations stems from cultural exchanges and meaningful people-to-people interactions. She underscored the importance of building connections through education, tourism, and shared cultural experiences, allowing citizens of both countries to understand each other’s societies better. In particular, she highlighted the pivotal role of language learning in strengthening ties. With China being one of Pakistan’s key neighbors, she encouraged Pakistani citizens to engage more actively with the Chinese language, culture, and societal structures. Likewise, she noted that fostering reciprocal understanding would enhance the bond between both countries. The lecture concluded with an engaging interactive session, where students and distinguished guests exchanged ideas and asked questions, contributing to a vibrant discussion on the future of Pakistan-China relations.

The walk, which aimed to promote mental health awareness and encourage community support, saw enthusiastic participation from students and faculty. Participants walked through the campus, carrying banners and placards with messages advocating for mental health awareness and support. Following the walk, a bake sale was held, featuring a variety of homemade treats. The proceeds from the bake sale will be used to fund mental health initiatives. Dr. Ruhi Khalid emphasized the importance of such events in fostering a supportive community and reducing the stigma associated with mental health issues. The event was a significant step towards promoting mental health awareness and creating a supportive environment for individuals struggling with mental health.