By Zainab Shafiq 
Nanjing University of Information Sciences and Technology (NUIST) has taken a significant step towards supporting Pakistani students in strengthening their research capabilities to combat the climate crisis. In an effort to achieve this, the university is offering fully funded scholarships in the field of Climate Change and Environmental Governance. This exciting opportunity has been confirmed by Professor Dr. Tong Jiang, the Executive Director of the Research Institute of Climatic and Environmental Governance at NUIST, who expressed the institution’s unwavering commitment to providing these scholarships exclusively to Pakistani students.
To facilitate collaboration in scientific research and foster student and faculty exchanges, NUIST has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST). Moreover, the scope of research cooperation has been expanded to include other renowned Pakistani universities such as Quaid-e-Azam University, COMSATS University Islamabad, and the Pakistan Meteorological Department.
Professor Jiang emphasized the warm welcome extended to young Pakistani scientists specializing in climate change and climate risk studies, inviting them to conduct research at NUIST. Additionally, the university is offering postdoctoral positions in Environmental Change to further enhance research opportunities.
The ongoing project in Pakistan revolves around the critical issues of water scarcity and the identification of tipping points related to climate change. Pakistan has experienced significant losses due to severe floods in recent years, while high temperatures and droughts continue to plague the nation. The research aims to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change and alleviate water shortages, offering hope for a more sustainable future.
Professor Jiang also acknowledged the pressing issue of air pollution and smog in Pakistan. Industrial emissions, vehicular emissions, domestic emissions, construction-related dust emissions, smoke from brick kilns, and agricultural waste burning are the major contributors to poor air quality. To combat these challenges, he suggested relocating industries from urban areas to dedicated industrial zones, transitioning to renewable energy systems, promoting affordable public transportation, implementing extensive tree-planting initiatives, and improving livestock and waste management practices in cities.
The scholarship program and research initiatives led by NUIST exemplify their commitment to addressing climate-related issues in Pakistan, with a specific focus on water scarcity, climate change impacts, and air pollution. These collaborative efforts aim to equip Pakistani students and researchers with the necessary knowledge and resources to make meaningful contributions in combating the climate crisis.
The fully funded scholarships offered by Nanjing University of Information Sciences and Technology (NUIST) in the field of Climate Change and Environmental Governance provide an exceptional opportunity for Pakistani students to acquire cutting-edge knowledge and skills in tackling urgent environmental challenges. Through partnerships with renowned universities and institutions in Pakistan, including NUST, Quaid-e-Azam University, COMSATS University Islamabad, and the Pakistan Meteorological Department, NUIST is actively fostering a comprehensive network of research cooperation. This collaboration not only enriches scientific knowledge but also promotes valuable exchanges between students and faculty, fostering a global perspective in addressing climate change.
NUIST’s focus on water scarcity and climate change tipping points in Pakistan demonstrates its commitment to addressing critical issues that directly impact the country’s environment, economy, and society. As Pakistan heavily relies on agriculture, water scarcity poses a significant threat to the nation’s stability and development.
By conducting research and developing innovative solutions to mitigate the effects of climate change on water resources, NUIST aims to contribute to sustainable water management strategies and ensure a secure future for Pakistan. This initiative aligns with the United Nations’ recognition of Pakistan’s increasing water shortage and underscores the urgent need to address this pressing issue through comprehensive research and collaborative efforts.
Applicants for the NUIST Excellent Freshmen Scholarship must meet specific eligibility criteria. They should be non-Chinese citizens, demonstrate a friendly attitude towards China, comply with Chinese government laws and regulations as well as NUIST’s rules and regulations, and meet the admission requirements set by the university. Academic achievements are also taken into consideration, with different criteria for undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral degree programs. Furthermore, applicants should not be recipients of other scholarships provided by the Chinese government, local governments, or other organizations concurrently.
To apply for the scholarship, interested candidates must complete an online application through the NUIST Online Application System for International Students. They need to create an applicant account, provide personal information, and upload the required application documents. During the application process, they should select the “NUIST Excellent Freshmen Scholarship” program. The deadline for submitting applications is June 30, 2023.