PESHAWAR - Governmental and non-governmental organisations marked the International Volunteers Day Thursday to pay tribute to volunteers.
Pakistan Red Crescent Society (PRCS) Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) chapter arranged an event to honour the services of all those who selflessly assisted the affected people of the recent mega disasters across the province.
The function was organised by the youth and volunteers department of PRCS KPK. Chairman PRCS KPK Dr Sher Mohammad Khan was the chief guest while noted Pashto poet, Prof Abaseen Yousafzai, Peshawar University Teachers Association (PUTA) president Dr Fazal Nasir, General Secretary PUTA, Prof Fayyaz Ur Rehman, along with large number of students and volunteers were also present on the occasion.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Sher Mohammad Khan said volunteerism was a noble cause adding that Islam also teaches Muslims about assisting the vulnerable and doing humane activities. He said PRCS successfully carried out relief activities during the earthquake of 2005, Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) crises from 2007-09 and massive flood of 2010. He said all these major activities were only being possible because of the volunteers and their dedication towards assisting the vulnerable segments.
Prof Abaseen Yousafzai praised the selfless services of volunteers and said humans were not only created for worship but also helping the others. "Youth can play an active role in formation of the society and development of the country, I am thankful to PRCS for guiding the young generation and building their capacities", he remarked. At the end, certificates of appreciation were awarded to active volunteers, while a peace walk was also held to highlight the importance of volunteerism.
In Lakki Marwat, National Commission for Human Development (NCHD) marked the International Volunteer Day by arranging a certificate distribution ceremony at Government Primary School Tajazai.
District Social Welfare Officer, Insafur Rehman, graced the ceremony as chief guest while Headmaster Muhammad Yaqoob presided over the event. Among others NCHD officials including Illyas Khattak, Alaf Gul, Farman Khan, ADEO (physical education and sports) Nisar Muhammad Ghaznikhel, Headmaster Haji Abdul Rahim and a prominent social activist Ameer Muhammad Khan were in the attendance.