News and Events

From Campus to Community: Students’ Role in Combating Human Trafficking

University of Rawalpindi organized an awareness session titled “From Campus to Community: Role of Students in Combating Human Trafficking” to address one of the most critical yet often underreported human rights issues. The session aimed to sensitize students to the realities of human trafficking and encourage them to play an active role in prevention and community advocacy.
The session featured Mr. Syed Kausar Abbas, Executive Director of the Sustainable Social Development Organization (SSDO), as the guest speaker. Drawing on his extensive experience in social development and human rights advocacy, Mr. Abbas delivered an informative and thought-provoking lecture that engaged students throughout the event.
During his talk, Mr. Abbas explained the concept of human trafficking, addressing common misconceptions and outlining its various forms, including forced labor, bonded labor, child exploitation, and sexual exploitation. He emphasized that human trafficking is not a distant issue but a serious challenge present within local communities, often remaining hidden due to lack of awareness.
A key focus of the session was the role of students in combating human trafficking. Through real-life examples and case studies, the speaker highlighted how informed students can help identify warning signs, raise awareness, challenge exploitative social norms, and assist victims by guiding them toward relevant institutions and support organizations. He stressed that education, ethical responsibility, and civic engagement are essential tools in preventing exploitation.
The session concluded with an interactive question-and-answer segment, allowing students to share their perspectives and seek guidance on contributing effectively to anti-trafficking initiatives. At the end of the event, a souvenir was presented to Mr. Syed Kausar Abbas by the Deputy Registrar as a token of appreciation for his valuable contribution.
The awareness session reinforced the University of Rawalpindi’s commitment to promoting social responsibility, civic awareness, and community engagement, highlighting how meaningful change can begin on campus and extend into society.