KARACHI, Sept 30: The Army Public School (O-level) picked up the wining school trophy at an environmental awareness declamation contest here the other day.

In all, 12 finalists from 42 participants spoke on three different topics, which was organized by an NGO — the Foundation for Progress.

The session was inaugurated by Sindh chief secretary K. B. Rind, while the secretary environment, Shamsul Haq Memon, was the chief guest at the concluding session.

Highlighting the role of the convener and organizer of the competition, Dr M. A. Wajid said that Pakistan was faced with a serious ecological crisis, with profound implications for the economy as well as for human well-being.

He stressed the need for initiating a national campaign at all levels of society to create awareness about environmental degradation.

Mr Rind called for promoting environmental-friendly habits and attitudes in society, involving students, parents and teachers as well as educational institutions.

Gemza Shah, Juzer Abbas and Marium Mehboob were adjudged as winner of the first prize in their groups.

Minister for environment Hassan Ali Channio remarked that education and environment were closely linked and were essential for sustainable development.