SDPI hosts conference on data for development (D4D)
The event brought together bureaucrats from Provincial Disaster Management Authorities (PDMAs) of Balochistan, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Azad Jammu and Kashmir, along with representatives from the development sector, academia, civil society, and media.
Romina Khursheed Alam expressed her appreciation for the presence of officials, terming it a “great moment of collaboration and coordination.” She highlighted that effective decision-making in today’s climate reality requires accurate, timely, and robust data. She stated, “Data is no longer a byproduct of policy; it is the foundation upon which sound policy must be built.”
Data as a Foundation for Climate Resilience
Reflecting on insights from recent international events, including COP29 and COP16 in Riyadh, she stressed that one of the primary challenges for developing countries is the lack of comprehensive data. She noted, “Without data, we cannot identify the root causes of issues or develop actionable solutions. Accurate data is as vital as the treatment for a patient in the ICU.”
Romina drew attention to the changing agricultural patterns in Pakistan due to climate extremes, citing examples where traditional crops such as wheat, rice, and cotton are failing to yield as expected. She pointed out the urgent need for data-driven solutions to tackle climate vulnerabilities in agriculture and other sectors.
Integration of Climate and Development
Romina underlined the need to integrate climate considerations into the national development agenda. She remarked, “Environmental protection and development are two sides of the same coin. By using data to pinpoint vulnerabilities, we can ensure not just environmental integrity but also economic and social resilience in our communities.”
Role of Media in Climate Awareness
She also appreciated the role of media in raising awareness about climate issues. She acknowledged that topics like climate change often lack public interest because they are perceived as less engaging. However, she urged the media to continue highlighting these critical issues, noting their role as the “voice that brings knowledge to the masses.”
The event concluded with a consensus on the need for collaborative efforts across sectors to harness data for effective climate action and sustainable development. Romina congratulated SDPI and other stakeholders for pioneering this initiative, emphasizing that collective efforts would pave the way for a resilient future.
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