Shehersaaz, accomplished yet another milestone by successfully concluding its PROGRESSIVE program, for which a ceremony was held in Rawalpindi. This included a formal handing over of Rainwater Harvesting Units to 18 government schools-a new benchmark toward climate-resilient and eco-sensitive learning spaces.

This occasion brought together officials from the education department, school principals, project teams, and community partners, and other stakeholders to celebrate this milestone. The CEO, District Education Authority Rawalpindi, Tariq Mehmood appreciated Shehersaaz for being a strong advocate of sustainable education through strengthening school-level resilience via practical community-centered solutions.

Project Manager Dr. Beenish gave an insightful overview of the PROGRESSIVE initiative within the project PUCCAR. She explained how each Rainwater Harvesting Unit was designed, installed, and integrated within school routines for better water security and increased environmental awareness among students and teachers alike.

A dynamic question-and-answer session with on-site engineer Abdullah further highlighted technical processes, key challenges, and the collaboration that shaped the success of the program.

The Disaster Risk Reduction component in the PROGRESSIVE program is very robust, preparing the students for real-life challenges. Specifically targeted trainings in first aid, solid waste management, and care for the environment have equipped the students with the skills to segregate wastes, produce compost, and establish kitchen gardens in their respective schools. All these activities give hands-on practice to the students while building a culture of responsibility, preparedness, and climate consciousness.

The signing of the Memorandum of Cooperation with principals of the 18 participating schools was the defining moment of the ceremony. This is where each school formalizes its commitment to maintain the systems provided and takes full ownership of all components contributing to its transformation into a PROGRESSIVE SCHOOL.

The program, which is implemented in partnership with UN Habitat and the Adaptation Fund, comprises far more than just water-related solutions-it involves urban farming and energy-efficient measures, too, thereby transforming schools into active hubs of both resilience and sustainability.

It was followed by the 29th anniversary celebration of Shehersaaz, which marked almost three decades of leading sustainable urban development and community-based climate action. PROGRESSIVE reflects the unwavering vision and capability that constitute Shehersaaz's success. Combining innovation and collaboration to engage with communities, Shehersaaz further shapes smarter, safer, and more sustainable cities for future generations.

Empowering Communities:

Successful TOTs in Rawalpindi and Nowshera Promote Sustainable Living

In a bid to foster sustainable living practices, the month of December witnessed transformative Training of Trainers (TOTs) in both Rawalpindi and Nowshera cities under the PUCCAR Project. The trainings, led by the Executive Director, Ms. Almas, brought together enthusiastic women from these cities to undergo a comprehensive two-day training program.

The primary focus of the TOTs was to empower the selected women with the skills and knowledge required for effective Solid Waste Management, a crucial component of the PUCCAR Project. The participants, chosen for their active and passionate approach, were immersed in hands-on sessions on compost-making and underwent assessments to enhance their general knowledge of recycling practices.

Ms. Almas, as the lead trainer, guided the women through the intricacies of compost production and shared valuable insights on the broader aspects of recycling. The training sessions weren't just theoretical; the participants were actively engaged through presentations, fostering a dynamic learning environment.

The PUCCAR Project aims to address critical aspects of community development, with Solid Waste Management being a pivotal component. The objective is to equip individuals with the skills to manage waste effectively, contributing to a cleaner environment and improved community well-being.

As the training concluded, these newly-minted trainers are now poised to extend their knowledge to their own communities. Armed with the ability to teach others about compost-making and sustainable practices, these empowered women are set to make a significant impact on their communities. The ripple effect is expected to create a network of self-sufficient households, promoting food security and enhancing overall community resilience.

The success of the TOTs in Rawalpindi and Nowshera marks a significant step towards achieving the goals of the PUCCAR Project. The dedication and passion exhibited by the participating women highlight the potential for positive change and community development through education and empowerment. As these trainers step into their communities, they embody the spirit of progress and sustainability, fostering a brighter and more resilient future for all.