University of Central Punjab in a significant advancement towards addressing climate change and wastewater treatment has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Water Care Services Pakistan on July 31, 2024. This collaboration, initiated by the Climate Change Research Council (CCRC) under the Dean, Faculty of Law, Dr Hadia Awan’s leadership seeks to promote research and innovation in climate and water sciences.
The MoU was signed by Pro-Rector, Dr Hammad Naveed and Director Technical, WCSP Mr Abdul A. Khurram. Dean, Faculty of Science and Technology, Dr Hafiza Rizwana Kausar, members of the Climate Change Research Council and Learning Innovation Centre’s staff were in attendance. Prof. Dr. Muhammad Akhyar Farrukh, Faculty of Science and Technology is the focal person and principal investigator of the joint project initiated under this MoU.
The main objective of this partnership is to develop and implement “Novel Nanotechnology Approaches to Indigenous Wastewater Treatment for a Cleaner and Climate-Resilient Future.” This project aims to leverage advanced nanotechnology to treat wastewater, addressing environmental and public health challenges while contributing to a more sustainable and climate-resilient future. It will be a first-of-its-kind project initiated in the country to address wastewater treatment using nanotechnology.
Moreover, the MoU includes provisions for consultancy services to address industrial and environmental challenges, benefiting both organizations and the broader community. The agreement emphasizes practical student engagement of UCP students in small-scale industrial projects. The hands-on approach will foster innovation and real-world problem-solving skills of students.
This partnership aligns with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), and SDG 13 (Climate Action). The collaboration marks a significant step forward in addressing Pakistan’s environmental challenges through joint research and innovation.