April 02, 2026-Aror University of Art, Architecture, Design and Heritage, Sukkur convened a high-level virtual meeting with representatives from University of Portsmouth, England
The meeting brought together leading scholars and institutional heads to deliberate on advancing a transdisciplinary research collaboration addressing critical regional and global challenges, particularly flood affects, climate change, sustainability, and the role of civil society in South Asia.
The session commenced with a welcome note by Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr Zahid Hussain Khand, who emphasized the importance of international cooperation in addressing complex environmental and societal issues. Opening remarks were delivered by Mr. Shoukat Ali Abbasi-Director HR/Coordinator Global Engagement (Europe) and Prof. Dr. Naheem Jabbar from University of Portsmouth highlighting the shared vision of both institutions.
Key discussions were focusing on:
• Developing a joint research framework
• Identifying shared priorities in environmental and social research
• Exploring opportunities for collaborative grants and publications
• Promoting academic mobility through exchanges, workshops, and seminars
Participants also discussed the establishment of a regional research network and the proposed initiative titled “Research Group on Environmentalism in South Asia: Civil Society and Climate Action.”
The meeting concluded with a consensus on outlining next steps to formalize collaboration and initiate joint academic and research activities. This engagement marks a promising beginning toward a long-term, impactful partnership between the two institutions.