Proper Use of Right to Information highlighted

Published in Pakistan Observer (30 July 2011)

Sana Jamal

Islamabad - Few people, even journalists are scarcely aware that Pakistan promulgated the Freedom of Information Ordinance in 2002, which is applicable to all departments, ministries and other institutions of the Federal government. In this regard, a major development took place in 2010 when Article 19-A was inserted in the Constitution to make Right to Information (RTI) a fundamental right. The Article states that “every citizen shall have right to have access to information in all matters of public importance subject to regulation and reasonable restrictions imposed by law.”

Diabetic patients advised extra care during Ramadan

Published in Pakistan Observer (24 July 2011)

Sana Jamal

ISLAMABAD – While stressing on the benefits of fasting in the holy month of Ramadan, Islam also offers special exemption to the sick people from observing their fast during Ramadan to avoid any hard condition. This viewpoint was highlighted at a health seminar entitled “Diabetes and Ramadan” arranged by Shifa International Hospital (SIH) on Saturday. Health experts at the seminar urged the diabetic patients to take extra care to manage their blood glucose level and avoid any unpleasant condition while fasting. The health seminar was intended to inform that according to Islam, people suffering from major ailment and on medication are advised not to put their lives at risk by fasting.

Health awareness project launched in rural Islamabad

Published in Pakistan Observer (14 July 2011)

Sana Jamal

Islamabad - Participants at a workshop urged the government to ensure that people living in slums of Islamabad have equal access to water, sanitation, and health care facilities. The health awareness workshop was arranged by Society for the Advancement of Community, Health, Education and Training (SACHET) on Wednesday to sensitize the media about adolescent sexual and reproductive health (ASRH) issues, which has long been a taboo in the country.

Women in Trade Initiative to enhance women participation in Business sector

Published in Pakistan Observer (13 July 2011)

Sana Jamal

Islamabad – Young generation filled with hope and passion can be a source of great strength for a nation but if their skills meet right kind of learning, they truly become an asset for the country as well as the world. To increase the the participation of Pakistani young women in the international trade sector, US Agency for International Development (USAID) in conjunction with several multinational firms launched the Women in Trade Initiative on Tuesday.

German artist’s generous approach to help flood victims

Published in Pakistan Observer (3 Apr. 2011)

by Sana Jamal

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan looks more beautiful as portrayed in the artwork of a German artist who has never been in the country yet has used simple means i.e. pen and ink to depict the architecture of Pakistan. This elegant work of Ute Elpers, a veteran artist, offer dual support for Pakistanis; firstly the art display major landmarks of Pakistan such as Minar-e-Pakistan, Badshahi Mosque, Uch Sharif, Wazir Khan Mosque, allowing us to appreciate our magnificent architecture and secondly all the proceedings from the sale of art is expected to be donated to the flood victims.

Role of Investigative Journalism discussed

Published in Pakistan Observer (7 July, 2011)

Sana Jamal

Islamabad - A proper investigative report can help increase awareness among the masses about the ills of the society, and at the same time it can portray the correct image of the nation to the outside world. To promote the culture of investigative journalism in Pakistan, a group discussion was held in Islamabad by Individual-land Pakistan, a nonprofit organization.

Report on Violence against women launched

'Zero tolerance against all sorts of violence in Pakistan' urged
Published in Pakistan Observer (6 July, 2011)

Sana Jamal

Islamabad - Speakers at a report launch on Tuesday, urged the legislators to adopt Domestic Violence Bill (DVB) at the earliest, as the number of reported “incidents of Violence against Women (VAW) mounted to 8000 during 2010.”

“People’s Assembly” urges Govt. to restore peace in the country

Published in Pakistan Observer (5 July, 2011)

Sana Jamal

Islamabad – Following a two-day People’s Assembly gathering in Abbottabad, a unanimous resolution urged the Government to stress on the need for restoration of peace in the country and to invest in the people by spending on social services, health and education to lay the foundation of a welfare state.

NCHD protestors determined to continue struggle

Published in Pakistan Observer (3 July, 2011)

Sana Jamal

Islamabad – More than 100 protestors have been staging a sit-in protest outside the Parliament building, since June 23, braving hot and rainy weather with hopes that Parliament, President and Prime Minister living few yards away will one day answer to their cries. The ill-fated employees of National Commission for Human Development (NCHD) are calling themselves as the victim of newly strengthened democracy in Pakistan as NCHD has been dissolved following the refusal of provinces to own it after the 18th Amendment.