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University of Sargodha (UoS) organized a series of events to mark World Environment Day, aimed at fostering environmental consciousness among students, faculty, and the general public.
Reflecting the vision of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, the events saw active participation from Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Qaisar Abbas, faculty, staff, and a large number of students, who collectively pledged to contribute towards a cleaner and greener environment both within the university and beyond.
A seminar was held at the Malik Feroz Khan Noon Business School, featuring keynote addresses by Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ashraf, Chairman of the Department of Soil Sciences, Dr. Irfan Ashraf, Chairman of the Department of Forestry, Dr. Haroon Ali Shah from the Department of Earth Sciences, and Ilyas Gondal from the Department of Punjabi.
While addressing, Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ashraf emphasized that environmental pollution is not confined to a particular country, institution, or individual but is a global challenge requiring collective action. "Despite significant advancements in science and technology, we have neglected the environment, resulting in soil degradation, increased toxins, and a rise in diseases such as cancer," he said.
He lauded the Punjab government’s “Clean Punjab Program” as a crucial initiative yielding positive outcomes, expressing hope for a future where Pakistan would be recognized as a clean and environmentally friendly nation.
Dr. Irfan Ashraf highlighted the importance of actionable efforts over symbolic observance. “Celebrating Environment Day should translate into on-ground action. Every citizen should plant at least two to three trees in their lifetime,” he urged.
He also shared that during International Forest Day this year, students at the College of Agriculture set a record by planting over 1,000 saplings in under two minutes.
Dr. Haroon Ali Shah warned about the alarming pace of glacial melting due to climate change. "Many glaciers in and around Pakistan are rapidly depleting, which is a serious concern. If we truly want to honor this day, large-scale afforestation is the need of the hour," he said.
Echoing the same sentiments, Ilyas Gondal underscored the cultural and ecological value of Punjab, urging the youth to actively support the Chief Minister’s clean environment vision. 
A special talk show was also aired on university Radio FM 98.2, hosted by Assistant Director Riaz Shad co-curricular forum Daym Iqbal. The program featured an in-depth discussion on the importance of increasing forest cover; speakers underscored the urgency of promoting tree-friendly attitudes and fostering a culture of environmental responsibility through grassroots engagement.