LAHORE:The Beaconhouse Centre for Policy Research (BCPR) at Beaconhouse National University (BNU), in collaboration with the Lord Sarfraz Foundation, organised an innovative competition to address the critical issue of lead poisoning in Pakistan.
According to a press release, the event brought together 13 teams from universities across the country, who presented creative solutions to mitigate this pressing public health challenge. A distinguished panel of experts judged the competition, evaluating proposals based on originality, practicality, and potential impact. Participants showcased a wide range of solutions, including the use of nanotechnology for lead detection, reforms in agricultural fertiliser regulations, evidence-based database systems, the adoption of international best practices, and institutional capacity building modeled after successful campaigns, such as Pakistan's anti-polio drive. The competition highlighted the importance of interdisciplinary approaches and youth engagement in tackling complex environmental health issues. Ambassador Mansoor Ahmed, Director of BCPR, commended the Lord Sarfraz Foundation for its philanthropic initiatives and emphasised the vital role of young innovators in developing sustainable solutions. He noted that Pakistan's youth possess remarkable potential to create positive transformation.