MARDAN: A one-day awareness session was organized in Mardan with the collaboration of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chapter of the Fresh Water Action Network South Asia-Pakistan and under the auspices of the Integrated Regional Support Programme (IRSP).The session aimed to raise awareness among various segments of society about emerging issues related to Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH), policy changes and their potential impacts, while encouraging stakeholders to promote collaborative action through mutual consultation and coordination.
A large number of men and women, students, social workers, members of women and youth networks, and people from different walks of life participated in the session. The speakers held detailed discussions on the challenges facing the WASH sector, the importance of improved sanitation facilities, and the promotion of hygiene and public health.The participants were also informed about the importance of effective coordination and a joint strategy among government institutions, civil society, women, youth and other relevant stakeholders to address issues related to water, sanitation and hygiene.
Addressing the session, IRSP Executive Director Shah Nasir, Muhammad Ismail and Nosheen Sardar said that WASH-related issues affect every member of society; therefore, the participation of all segments of society is essential for finding sustainable solutions. They urged the participants to play their role in promoting awareness and bringing positive change regarding water, sanitation and hygiene in their respective communities.
The speakers further emphasized that women and youth are important segments of society, and their effective involvement in policymaking, consultation and practical initiatives can help achieve better and more sustainable results in addressing WASH-related challenges.At the conclusion of the session, the participants expressed their commitment to strengthening mutual cooperation and continuing joint initiatives at the local level
