ISLAMABAD:
The Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan, under its Higher Education Development in Pakistan (HEDP) project, organized a specialized training session on E-Waste Management Planning for HEC officials and representatives from universities across the country.
The training aimed to raise awareness, build institutional capacity, and promote environmentally responsible practices in managing electronic waste, which has become a growing concern in academic institutions and public sector organizations.
The opening session was graced by HEC Executive Director Dr. Mazhar Saeed, who served as the chief guest. In his remarks, he underscored the importance of equipping universities with effective knowledge and strategies to handle e-waste safely and sustainably.
“With the increasing reliance on ICT equipment in modern institutions, the proper management of e-waste is essential for both environmental protection and long-term institutional sustainability,” Dr. Mazhar Saeed stated.
Focus on Sustainability and Stewardship
Expert trainers delivered in-depth presentations covering key aspects of e-waste, including:
-
Sustainable disposal and recycling practices
-
Environmental and health impacts of e-waste
-
National and international regulations
-
The importance of institutional e-waste policies
Participants were encouraged to take collective responsibility for ensuring that e-waste from campuses is managed in compliance with environmental standards, aligning with broader goals of sustainability and green governance in the higher education sector.
It is worth noting that Information and Communication Technology (ICT) equipment forms a significant portion of e-waste in any modern organization. Without proper disposal systems, such waste poses serious threats to both human health and the environment. (With input from INP)