LAHORE: Emerson University Multan (EUM) on Wednesday organised the first international conference on biodiversity, sustainability and natural history.

The two-day academic and researchbased conference took place at Al-Ghazali Hall, bringing together experts, researchers, policymakers, and vice chancellors from various universities to discuss cutting-edge scientific perspectives on biodiversity, environmental conservation, and sustainability.

The conference witnessed participation of University of Sargodha VC Prof Qaisar Abbas, Women University Multan VC Prof Kalsoom Paracha and Khwaja Fareed University of Engineering and IT, Rahim Yar Khan VC Prof Amir Azam Khan.

EUM Vice Chancellor Prof Muhammad Ramzan emphasised the critical role of scientific research in addressing pressing global challenges.

He highlighted Pakistan`s water scarcity issues, underscoring the necessity of collaborative efforts among scientists, policymakers, academic institutions, industries, and society to ensure sustainable management of natural resources.

Prof Abbas stressed the need for faculty training, academic exchange programmes and research collaborations to enhance higher education standards in Pakistan.

Prof Kalsoom Paracha emphasised the significance of natural resource conservation. She urged adopting Islamic teachings in environmental sustainability, including water conservation,organic farming, and afforestation.

The conference featured insightful research presentations and keynote addresses from renowned experts, including Prof Benjamin F. Diala, who delivered an in-depth lecture on `Invertebrate Fossils of Lower Tellrock, shedding light on Indiana`s geological survey and evolutionary research.

Ansar Mahmood Chattha highlighted the importance of aquatic life conservation and proposed joint research projects between EUM and the Fisheries Department.

Prof Azam Khan discussed environmental balance and sustainability, warning against the severe consequences of neglecting ecological principles.

Cholistan University Bahawalpur Prof Abdul Ghaffar presented their research on biodiversity and sustainable lifestyles.

A panel discussion featured prominent academicians, industry representatives, and policymakers engaged in a dialogue on the intersection of academic research, industrial development, and sustainability. They recommended promoting environmental stability, modernising agriculture, improving water resource management, and advancing biodiversity conservation efforts.

The conference also featured a poster presentation session where students and young researchers showcased their innovative research ideas, receiving valuable feedback and guidance from experts. The event concluded with awarding shields and certificates to speakers, participants and researchers. Staff Reporter