FAZAL HAQ
MARDAN: The Umeed project successfully hosted a three-day training workshop in Abbottabad, bringing together faith leaders from Muslim, Christian, Hindu, and Sikh communities to tackle the pressing challenges of climate change. Supported by the US Consulate General in Peshawar and implemented by the Center for Social Education and Development, the workshop emphasized interfaith collaboration and equipped participants with tools to mobilize their communities toward environmental preservation.
The training welcomed faith leaders and observers, surpassing expectations. This session marked the third in a series of six workshops under the Umeed project, aimed at fostering collective action to combat climate challenges in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Alongside the faith leaders, representatives from local governments, civil society, media, and youth organizations joined the activity during different sessions, ensuring an inclusive and diverse approach to climate resilience.
Climate change was acknowledged as a critical issue, with participants describing it as a “crisis of survival” for communities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The training addressed key topics such as adaptation strategies, resilience building, and community engagement. Faith leaders resolved to incorporate environmental stewardship into their sermons, lectures, and religious gatherings to raise awareness and inspire action. “Faith leaders carry a moral responsibility,” said one participant. “Our influence is unmatched, and by coming together, we can inspire entire communities to work toward preserving the environment for future generations.”
Participants also focused on the essential roles of youth and women in addressing climate change. Strategies to engage these groups were explored, with faith leaders committing to include them in upcoming Community Action Projects. A youth leader present at the workshop commented youth and women are catalysts for change. When empowered, they can drive sustainable solutions and ensure that our fight against climate change is inclusive and impactful.”
Another essential workshop focus was collaborating with local government officials and civil society organizations. Participants emphasized the need for institutional support to implement grassroots environmental initiatives effectively. One participant noted, “Faith leaders bridge the gap between communities and policymakers. Their active involvement strengthens the foundation for impactful and sustainable climate actions.”
Media engagement played a significant role in amplifying the workshop’s message. Journalists from prominent local outlets attended the event and pledged to use their platforms to highlight interfaith collaboration for climate action. A media representative stated, “The unity among faith leaders is a powerful narrative. Promoting such efforts inspires communities and creates accountability and momentum for real change.”
The workshop also fostered deeper interfaith connections, emphasizing the shared moral duty of all religions to protect the Earth. Participants celebrated their commitment to tackling climate challenges and laid the groundwork for future collaborations. The unity demonstrated during the event reflected a shared understanding that environmental preservation transcends religious boundaries.
The Abbottabad workshop is a testament to interfaith solidarity’s power in addressing climate challenges. Organizers thanked the US Consulate General in Peshawar for their support, acknowledging their partnership’s essential role in enabling this critical initiative. With momentum building, the Umeed project looks forward to its next training session in Mansehra, continuing its mission to empower communities and preserve the environment.
