The Institute for Research, Advocacy and Development (IRADA), together with the Sustainable Development Policy Institute (SDPI), held a capacity-building workshop in Islamabad to boost Green Skills among journalists and sharpen climate reporting across Pakistan. The training is part of a Danish Embassy funded project aimed at shaping Pakistan’s climate prosperity plan and advancing inclusive, equitable development.
Climate expert Dr Asif Khan led sessions on climate science, policy and governance, explaining how accurate reporting requires a clear grasp of core concepts. He stressed that climate differs from weather, saying climate is what we expect in the long term while weather is what we get on a daily basis. Dr Khan warned that weak policy planning and poor implementation of the National Adaptation Plan remain major obstacles to effective climate action.
Dr Khan highlighted the need to align Pakistan’s Nationally Determined Contributions with the National Adaptation Plan so both frameworks are mutually reinforcing. He urged stronger governance, evidence-based climate policies and a proactive media role in communicating adaptation strategies and mitigation efforts to the public.
Programme Officer Syeda Kashmala said the workshop focused on improving journalists’ understanding of climate change and fiscal planning through practical sessions and discussions. She explained the initiative is designed to equip reporters who cover climate mitigation and adaptation with the tools to convey complex environmental and economic issues clearly and responsibly.
More than a dozen journalists from diverse media outlets attended and took part in interactive discussions on climate governance, sustainable development and the media’s role in building awareness. Participants left with enhanced Green Skills aimed at strengthening climate reporting that can inform policymaking and public debate in Pakistan.
