Green Dreams for a Better Tomorrow: KU CSD Organizes Climate-Action Ideathon

The Department of Computer Science at the University of Karachi organized a two-day event titled the “Climate-Action Ideathon.” Forty teams from ten different universities presented various ideas to combat climate change. Judges selected winners who received cash prizes for first, second, and third place.
The closing ceremony was attended by prominent figures including Dr. Khalid Mahmood Iraqi, Vice Chancellor of the University of Karachi; Engr. Wasim Nazir, Managing Director of MMP; Dr. M. Ali Shaikh, former VC of SMIU; Dr. Tariq Rahim Soomro, Chair of IEEE Karachi Section; Abu Bakar Madni, Special Secretary to DG Local Government; Imdad Hussain Siddiqui, Director of Operations at Sindh Disaster Management Authority; and Dr. Musarrat Jahan Yousuf, Dean of the Faculty of Science at KU. Dr. Sadiq Ali Khan, Chairman of the Department of Computer Science and Chair of IEEE Education Society Karachi Section, hosted the event.
In his speech, Dr. Khalid Mahmood Iraqi emphasized that climate change, a global crisis, is one of the most defining challenges of our time, demanding urgent and innovative solutions. He stressed the importance of reaffirming commitment to sustainable development goals to tackle issues such as global warming, droughts, floods, and natural disasters exacerbated by climate change worldwide.
Dr. Iraqi highlighted the need for practical measures to minimize climate change, urging all relevant authorities worldwide to design effective preventive strategies to mitigate further damage. He underscored that addressing climate change requires a multidisciplinary approach involving experts from fields like engineering, economics, sociology, and computer science.
The event’s Chief Guest, Engr. Wasim Nazir, Managing Director of MMP, stated that climate change is no longer a distant concern but an urgent reality demanding collective action. He emphasized the critical role of oceans, covering over 70% of the planet’s surface, in ecosystems, climate regulation, and human livelihoods, stressing the need for effective irrigation and water management systems to address contamination.
Dr. M. Ali Shaikh, President of the Citizen Educational and Empowerment Society and former VC of SMIU, highlighted the pivotal role of education and technology in shaping a sustainable future. He emphasized the importance of developing solutions to mitigate climate change impacts and promote a greener, more sustainable planet.
Dr. Tariq Rahim Soomro, Chair of IEEE Karachi Section, emphasized that climate change transcends borders and disciplines, requiring a collaborative effort. He praised Dr. Sadiq Ali Khan for organizing the Ideathon and highlighted the crucial role of computer science and information technology in enhancing our response to environmental challenges.
Abu Bakar Madni, Special Secretary to DG Local Government, stressed that climate change is a global problem requiring local action and global cooperation. He encouraged participants to recognize the potential of their ideas, however small, to create significant positive change in the global effort against climate change.
Imdad Hussain Siddiqui, Director of Operations at Sindh Disaster Management Authority, shared firsthand experiences of the devastating impacts of climate change in the province, from floods to droughts. He emphasized the urgent need for innovative solutions, noting that climate change affects ecosystems, economies, and communities.
Dr. Musarrat Jahan Yousuf, Dean of the Faculty of Science, highlighted that climate action is not just an environmental issue but a global challenge impacting every aspect of life. She stressed the importance of prioritizing climate action to ensure a sustainable future for future generations.
Dr. Sadiq Ali Khan concluded by warning of dire consequences if immediate global action is not taken. He emphasized the Ideathon’s role in addressing today’s environmental challenges and urged young minds to lead in resolving these issues.