Celebrating World Ozone Day at Government Queen Mary Graduate College, in collaboration with SOS Foundation

An awareness session on World Ozone Day (16 September 2025) was organized jointly by the Save Our Society (SOS) Foundation and Government Queen Mary Graduate College, Lahore on 25th September 2025. The seminar aimed at highlighting the significance of the ozone layer and to promote effective measures to reduce its depletion for the sustainability of life on Earth.

The event was chaired by Prof. Dr. Zeb Saddiqe, Dean of Sciences and College Section Head, along with Dr. Qamar-ul-Nisa, Deputy Section Head. The program was attended by the faculty and students of Departments of Botany, Zoology, and Chemistry a large number of students from BS Botany, BS Chemistry, and BS Zoology.

In her keynote address, Dr. Shaista Sohail (CEO, SOS Foundation) emphasized the importance of the ozone layer as a protective shield against harmful ultraviolet radiation. She highlighted the causes of ozone depletion such as excessive use of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), industrial emissions, and deforestation. Practical solutions including the promotion of eco-friendly alternatives, sustainable energy use, plantation drives, and reduction of chemical pollutants were also shared with the audience.

To actively contribute, students prepared creative awareness charts displaying messages and illustrations about the measures to reduce ozone depletion, which were showcased during the session. This activity not only encouraged student participation but also enhanced the overall impact of the seminar.

The session was highly interactive and informative, enhancing students’ awareness of environmental challenges and their role in safeguarding the planet. At the end of the seminar, an interactive quiz competition was conducted to engage the students. Winners of the quiz were awarded cash prizes. Certificates of appreciation were awarded by the SOS Foundation.

The seminar concluded with a vote of thanks to the organizers Dr. Hafsa Memona (Assistant Professor of Zoology) and Ms. Umara Shehzad (Lecturer in Biology), faculty, and students for their active participation. The event successfully fulfilled its objective of sensitizing young minds about the urgent need to protect the ozone layer and adopt sustainable practices.