Climate Change: Impacts on Balochistan and Suggested Contemplative Responses

Muneeb Ur Rahman, Aadersh Hamza — Tue, 10 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Pakistan’s contribution to the total Greenhouse Gas (GHG) is one of the lowest in the world and the contribution of the Province of Balochistan is almost none. However, Pakistan, particularly Balochistan province, is among the most vulnerable to climate change. According to studies, there are evidences of a global trend of climate change which can be observed in almost every region of Balochistan. These trends include floods, cyclones, significant increases in the frequency and severity of extreme weather events, and unprecedented monsoon rains. This results in regular siltation of small dams, overflow, and droughts. Similarly, snowfall has also decreased significantly as compared to previous years. The groundwater table is falling day by day and water availability in the province is steadily decreasing. The Balochistan province also lacks necessary infrastructure for water storage. Moreover, it also faces socioeconomic challenges, such as poverty, lack of access to education, limited healthcare services, and disaster management. The combination of all these factors along with the heightened reliance of the people of Balochistan on natural resources, limited technological capabilities, and inadequate financial resources to manage climate extremes, render them vulnerable to poverty. The adaptation and mitigation actions must be prioritized and put into action to tackle the said issues. This can only be achieved by planning and executing suitable adaptation measures, preferably nature-based solutions, at the provisional and local levels. The core of the issue is poor governance and any potential solutions may only be implemented if the government makes competent and workable decisions.

Qualitative Analysis of Family’s Structure and Practices in Shaping Higher Education and Career Choices of Male Academics in Public Universities of KP, Pakistan

Nasik Abbas, Fouzia Sadaf, Sawera Farooq Butt — Tue, 10 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

This study addresses the gap in empirical research concerning the experiences of male academics in Pakistan's higher education system, with a specific focus on public universities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP). While substantial work exists on female academics, men's experiences remain underexplored. This research aimed to examine how socio-economic circumstances and family influence the higher education and career choices of male academics. In-depth interviews were conducted with 14 lecturers and assistant professors from KP’s public universities. Thematic analysis revealed that the majority of participants were first-generation scholars, highlighting the significant role of family support in overcoming socio-economic challenges. For some, privileged family backgrounds provided inspiration and guidance. Despite barriers related to family and regional disparities, persistent encouragement from families played a pivotal role in academic and career success. This qualitative study contributes to global literature by shedding light on the unique experiences of male academics in an under-explored context and offers recommendations for future policy interventions.

Sociological Research And Innovation

Climate Change: Impacts on Balochistan and Suggested Contemplative Responses

Qualitative Analysis of Family’s Structure and Practices in Shaping Higher Education and Career Choices of Male Academics in Public Universities of KP, Pakistan