Moot highlights significance of preserving wildlife, ecosystem

LAHORE:The 3rd International Conference on ‘Zoological Emerging Scientific Trends (ZEST 2024)’ concluded at University of Education here on Thursday.

The two-day event brought together 14 zoological experts from Pakistan and other countries, including Turkiye, Denmark, the United States, Poland, the UAE, Austria, Thailand, South Korea, and the UK.

A total of 300 research papers were presented over the course of the conference, with a total of 1,400 participants in attendance. The closing ceremony was presided over by the Vice Chancellor of the University of Education, Prof Dr Aqif Anwar Chaudhry while the chief guest was Mudassir Riaz Malik, Director General, Wildlife & Parks Punjab. Prof Dr Shagufta Andleeb, Chairperson of the Department of Zoology, thanked the participants and guests.

In his address, Prof Dr Aqif Anwar Chaudhry commended the efforts of all scholars and participants, emphasising the significance of collaborative research in addressing global zoological trends.

He expressed his pride in hosting international conference and stressed the role of universities in fostering scientific dialogue on a global scale. The vice chancellor also acknowledged the collaborative efforts of the Department of Zoology and the Division of Science & Technology in making ZEST 2024 a successful event.

Mudassir Riaz Malik appreciated the conference's focus on emerging scientific issues and highlighted the importance of preserving wildlife and ecosystems in Pakistan. He said ZEST 2024 will play a crucial role in shaping future policies for wildlife management and environmental sustainability. The conference underscored the significance of interdisciplinary research in addressing critical challenges related to biodiversity, animal behaviour, and ecosystem conservation, he added. A large number of faculty members, students, staff, and individuals from various sectors attended the conference. More than 10 poster presenters also contributed to the event.