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Coronaviruses (CoV) are a large family of viruses that cause illness ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS-CoV). Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is a new strain that was discovered in 2019 and has not been previously identified in humans. (Source: WHO)
International Women’s Day, celebrated around the world on the 8th of March, is dedicated to honouring women of substance and their achievements in the social, economic, cultural and political arenas. It is also a day to bring awareness to gender parity and women’s rights, regardless of one’s race, religion and culture.
A model competition was organised by the Aga Khan Youth and Sports Board for Amynabad in the respective Jamatkhana on the 24th and 25th of January, 2020. The competition aimed to create awareness about the global network of Ismaili Centres in the cities of Dubai, Dushanbe, Lisbon, London, Toronto and Vancouver. Understanding the concept behind each Jamatkhana, built upon the history and heritage of the Ismaili tradition, provided the Jamat with the knowledge as well as the ability to convey the importance of architecture in modern-day society.
The percentage of elderly people in Pakistan is expected to double to 12 percent by 2050, increasing the number of senior citizens to 40 million. This demographic transition impacts citizens of all ages. Therefore, it is important that senior citizens take the necessary steps to ensure they have a good quality of life financially, even after retirement.
The sustainable development goals (SDGs) set forth by the United Nations (UN) in 2015 are envisioned to make the world a better place by 2030. In order to better understand the goals and their potential, the Ismaili Girl Guides in Pakistan attended a four-day summit at the Guides’ Association headquarters in Islamabad.
Transforming Life - Story of Sirajuddin, Dubargar Upper Chitral
Sirajuddin, a resident of Dubargar, Upper Chitral used to travel to Islamabad in search of work, leaving behind his home for a better future. Despite all his efforts, he could not earn a sustainable wage. Determined to improve his financial condition, Sirajuddin signed up to receive carpentry training under the Socio-Economic Development Programme (SEDP). He now works independently in his village and supports his family.
The nature of life for the elderly has changed considerably in recent history. With advancements in science and healthcare, human lifespan has substantially increased and the majority of people in the world can expect to live past the age of 60. Jamati institutions in Pakistan have embarked on numerous initiatives to support the elderly and create opportunities for interaction between different generations.
Last month, young members of the Jamat in Pakistan had the opportunity to tour interior Sindh and Karachi on a journey to reflect on and understand the importance of cultural heritage. The trip was organised as part of the Heritage Discovery Tour (HDT), a flagship programme of the Arts and Culture portfolio of the Aga Khan Youth and Sports Board for Pakistan.
Seven days, two cities, 62 Ismaili youth from all over Pakistan and a plethora of emotions, memories and lifelong friendships. This sums up the flagship programme, Broadening Horizon Youth Camp (BHYC), of the Aga Khan Youth and Sports Board for Pakistan (AKYSBP) held in Lahore and Islamabad from the 24th of December through the 30th of December, 2019. Continuing its legacy, this year the BHYC used a multidisciplinary approach to ensure that Ismaili youth develop the tenacity and drive to make positive, informed choices in addressing contemporary challenges, take pride in their identity and are able to enhance their leadership skills to become ambassadors of the community.
The 58th TPL Sindh Open Boys Swimming Championship was held in Karachi from Friday, the 8th of November through Sunday, the 10th of November 2019, where more than 400 competitors from schools, colleges and leisure clubs participated in the event. Organised by the Sindh Swimming Association (SSA), the event included competitive swimmers from all over Sindh, as well as friendly races for children from the Special Olympics. From the Jamati level, four boys - Abran Jeeva, Aly Muhammad Dadwani, Rayan Jivani and Zayan Ajanee – participated winning five gold medals, three silver medals and four bronze medals.