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Gender inclusion
Pakistan is nearing a critical point in its environmental crisis, where every drop of water is vital and forests that once shaded generations are vanishing. For millions, the environmental disaster is an immediate reality, with mothers walking miles to fetch water and farmers watching their land turn barren. This stark reality calls for solutions that are not only urgent but inclusive, leveraging the knowledge and resilience of those most impacted.
However, environmental decision-making remains predominantly male, sidelining women whose lives are deeply intertwined with the environment. This exclusion prevents the development of solutions that address the needs of half the population. For example, in rural Pakistan, the exclusion of women from discussions about water management means that their struggles—such as walking long distances to collect water—are ignored. A dam built without consulting women might block traditional water routes, worsening an already difficult task.
On the other hand, involving women in such decisions can lead to sustainable solutions, like community water access points, benefiting both families and the environment. Research from South Asia shows that when women participate in environmental governance, outcomes improve significantly. Yet, societal norms and institutional barriers continue to prevent women from leading in this area, perpetuating both environmental mismanagement and gender inequality.
It is time for policymakers, NGOs and leaders to ensure gender inclusion in environmental decision-making. Quotas, gender-sensitive training and grassroots engagement are essential first steps. The media and civil society must amplify women’s voices and advocate for necessary structural reforms. Our future depends on it.
SHAHJAHAN MEMON
Islamabad
It is enough!
I recently came across an article by a fellow writer [Pakistan Observer] about the issue he mentioned about age relaxation, upon reading, I thought the point raised might be valid and it’s something that deserves consideration based on the points mentioned in that particular passage.
After when I searched online if the age limit is limited by the government of Sindh. I got to know that the Sindh government has increased the age limit for new government employees from 28 to 30 years old in January 2025.
Previously, the government had increased the upper age limit to 43 years, but the court nullified that decision and reinstated the limit to 28 years. However, now the government has increased it to 30 years. While I appreciate the government’s decision and their continuous effort in the right direction to facilitate the youth with age relaxation by increasing the age limit by two years, we must consider the reality of today’s job market.
Most students graduate between the ages of 24 and 26, and after completing their bachelor’s degree, many choose to pursue a Master’s. So, this leaves limited time to find a job. Jobs aren’t handed to you on a platter after graduation.
not like you graduate and instantly get a job. Even getting a job requires struggle and you’ll still need to hustle and chase opportunities. Nowadays, finding a job has become so challenging, the job market has become incredibly tough, and before you know it, three years will have flown by.
Time slips away unnoticed, just like flowing water downstream. I believe 43 was a more suitable limit considering our employment rate. A 28-year age limit might be suitable for countries with diverse opportunities and higher employment rates, but it may not be realistic for our context.
AREEBA ALTAF
Sindh