The Snow Leopard Foundation (SLF) conducted a seminar on World Wetlands Day in collaboration with the School of Social Sciences and Humanities at NUST on February 4, 2019. Wetlands play a crucial role in the global climate change debate. They are complex ecosystems that include both land and water organisms. Among the many benefits they provide, the prevention of floods and the filtration of pollutants are particularly relevant when considering the effects of climate change and environmental management on a global scale.

The importance and impact of wetland conservation were thoroughly discussed by SLF’s Assistant Director of Communications, Moiz Rafi. Given the conservation and awareness efforts made by the Snow Leopard Foundation in the northern regions of Pakistan, its dedication to ecological initiatives such as climate change and habitat conservation is commendable. “Youth are one of our key stakeholders, and we ensure their participation in snow leopard conservation, education, and awareness components of our projects,” said Moiz Rafi. “I am glad to be here today, having a productive and informative discussion with the students,” he added. He also thanked Dr. Muhammad Arif, Head of Department, and Mr. Salman Nasir for their support in organizing the event.

A video message from Martha Rojas-Urrego, Secretary General of the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands, and the SLF documentary “Science, Society, and Snow Leopard” were screened at the event, both of which were well received by the students. The students showed great interest in learning about the challenges and difficulties in wetlands management and wildlife conservation. They also expressed a desire to participate in conservation educational field activities in the snow leopard range valleys.

The seminar was organized and conducted by three students from the Mass Communication department at the university: Amna Khan, Anooshay Athar, and Aysha Mati. The students are working in collaboration with the Snow Leopard Foundation to raise awareness about snow leopards, wildlife, and habitat conservation in Pakistan through strategic communication efforts.