Qayam-e-Aman: Special Children’s Play 2018!

Children are the brightest and the most curious of us all and if nurtured carefully, they can be our best shot at laying a strong foundation for a bright future. As adult humans it is our responsibility that no child that comes into this world feels left out. We should develop a sense of inclusion, a sense of being an ‘integral part of the society’ in each and every child. Doing this will allow the children to develop a sense of purpose and social responsibility.

Special children, while possessing wonderful abilities are often susceptible to feeling left out and NCSC has taken the helm of remedying this. Each year under the banner of its event ‘Special Children’s Play’, NCSC organizes a play performed by these children. The play, intricately written and brilliantly performed has a profound message relating to the challenges faced by us as a society. This year, in collaboration with Step to Learn School, NCSC brings you the 3rd installment of Special Children’s Play titled ‘Qayam-e-Aman’.

The Special Children’s Play conducted in February 2017

To let the reader have a hint of what it feels like to be a part of such a special play, we have compiled for you a bunch of short passages written by the OC members who have worked in the play’s previous two installments. Buckle up and delve deep into the realm of emotion!
“Special Children’s Play was one of the best events of NCSC that I have been a part of. It was a very different experience getting into the shoes of kids who are struggling everyday with some form of disability, communicating with them and making them learn something. I feel it was just as much of a learning experience for us as it was for them. We learned to appreciate the blessings we take for granted. We learned that those kids are indeed special.”

-Humna Bilal

 

“Sign language was never this much fun before! The quiet classrooms were the loudest, that’s because their eyes spoke. Days which revolved around the script, narration and never ending rehearsals were tiring but when the kids were on stage, a few people could hold their tears and that was it! That’s what Special Children’s Play 2017 was all about.”

-Aysha Bilal

February 2017

“It was a beautiful experience. Before SCP, I thought you can only communicate by speech. But those kids taught me how to communicate without words. Little gestures like a smile or a frown say a lot. I didn’t know their hand gestures but even I understood every bit of their laughter. There is a universal language which requires no words.

When I was going to that school I was a bit sad but when I entered there I was bursting into laughter every now and then.

When everyone was rehearsing the play I sneaked out to meet more kids. In no time we all decided to dance. I was surprised to realize that they dance by feeling the beats. I was overwhelmed and I requested the event head to include this segment in the main show. It was such a happy day although their instructor made me dance right in the middle of the huge hall, to help the kids follow the moves. Yes, it was indeed very embarrassing but was rich and fulfilling at the same time.”

-Maira Jalil

The Play conducted in May 2017

“Special Children’s Play is not just another project, it is something very close to my heart. I started off the journey with an aim of giving something to these children, but it wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say that we got more than we gave, and learned more than we taught.

They say that these children are differently abled, not disabled. And I realized it after being among them for some time that these children are so much beautifully-abled and are truly special in all the good ways.

The take home message that I learned from this journey was: No words, no language but love is the best way of communication.

I urge everyone to come forward for this cause, if not for these kids then for yourself to experience something exceptionally beautiful and moving. Because special is beautiful.”

-Hafsa Mir.

 

“It is easier to understand the privileges we have in any scenario. You can understand the problems a physically challenged person goes through and he too, knows how the loss of not being fit costs him. This does not hold when it comes to hearing impaired children.

The children had their recess when we entered their school last year. What I experienced in the following 15 minutes struck me harder than anything had before. They had their complete way of life. Their day was running as smooth as mine does in NBS. The children were all running around smiling, exchanging high fives while playing different games. Some were just busy having their lunch. You could actually feel the energy of a normal school there, but there was no other sound reaching my ears except the footsteps of running children. I had never seen an exchange of so many hand gestures ever before. It was like Naruto on mute and without any subtitles. All of a sudden, I was the one feeling like a special child, because it was me who did not know how to communicate and everyone around me did. That is the moment that it strikes you! The real feel. The real value of the privilege of being able to communicate; because you have always done it but, just cannot now! That, in my personal opinion is the most special of all feels. Which can only be experienced firsthand to understand, because this is not just ‘any’ privilege and this is not just ‘any’ scenario.”

-Tahmasib Khushk

 

Abdul Hayee

OKM’s Library Opens Its Doors!

“There is more treasure in books than in all the pirate’s loot on Treasure Island.” — Walt Disney

Books are a magical portal that transport the reader into a realm where all dreams come true and the sky is never the limit. Since hundreds of years (yes, books weren’t commonly available until the printing press’ advent), they have captivated both adults and children alike.

The bright students at Aghosh Al-Khidmat Orphanage have an unquenchable thirst for knowledge and a curiosity for the beautiful and complex world around them. This year, NCSC’s project “Orphans Know More” inaugurated a library at the Orphanage itself to provide the children with the best source of traditional, proven learning and inculcate a habit of reading. The books were collected through donations and comprised of every category needed for growing minds, including books in both English and Urdu, fiction and non-fiction as well as dictionaries, atlases and encyclopedias.

Dr. Safdar, NCSC’s faculty sponsor and Sir Bilal, the branch head of Aghosh Al-Khidmat Orphanage were the chief guests at the inauguration ceremony. OKM’s past and present project heads all united to say a few words about their vision for OKM, and how much it meant to them.

The guests were then taken upstairs to cut the ribbon and formally inaugurate the library for the jubilant youngsters.

Without further delay, the children were divided into groups and taken to the new library. A huge variety of books, educational toys, flashcards awaited them, and for the next few hours (more than anticipated) the readers and their volunteers were inseparable.  Some read on their own, some read with the help of volunteers, and yet others tried to find Peshawar on a miniature globe.

The incredible response of the children and the joy our volunteers felt when reading out to them left its mark and brought the unstinting efforts to fruition. Seeing the unending excitement of the children, it is now planned that every OKM visit henceforth will now devote an hour of quality reading time!

We hope that this library proves to be a fountain of knowledge that assists us in developing the brightest minds and shaping the future with the power of knowledge and understanding. May all those who enter its doors benefit to the utmost from this remarkable initiative!

Haseeb Kazmi

The World Does Look A Lot Better in HD

“Do I really have to wear them?” enquired the bespectacled boy.

“Thank God they exist, otherwise what would be the fate of the likes of you and me”, replied the bespectacled doctor.

The world is a beautiful place. Every inch is abundant with miraculous detail. The clear starry night, trees swaying in the wind, colorful butterflies fluttering about equally colorful flowers: sights that add beauty to one’s life, and one can’t help but envy those who are able to see all this with perfect clarity.

But even those with less-than-perfect eyesight, like yours truly, have a lot to be thankful for. Gone are the days when deteriorating eyesight would put one’s personal life, education and career in jeopardy. Vision can be corrected through a variety of means, most of them cheap and easily accessible.

Glasses, contact lenses, and laser surgery have enabled people with weak eyesight to do almost everything without their vision being an obstacle. Glasses have enabled such people to drive, partake in adventure sports, and even serve in the military in certain capacities. Not only that, glasses are now associated with higher IQ and success, so much so that they have become a common fashion accessory among people who don’t have any vision problems. Long story short: it is definitely not the worst time to be a ‘four-eyes’.

Vision correction can greatly improve a person’s quality of life, but there is still a large gap between those who need it and those who are availing it. In developing countries the lack of public awareness about eye health, coupled with financial difficulties, means that a large number of people who need glasses don’t get them. This not only lowers their quality of life, but also makes them more susceptible to injury on account of their vision.

To bridge this gap, NUST Community Services Club (NCSC) will be holding an ‘Eye Camp’ on the 18^th and 19^th of April at NUST Medical Centre. Consultation with eye doctors will be available free of cost for everyone. Free medicines and glasses will also be available. So if you are a bit iffy about your eyesight, or already have glasses but haven’t had an eye exam in a while, drop by at NCSC’s Eye Camp and let our medical staff dust off those webs and make life a bit more beautiful.

 

Usman Shafi

5 Thing To Know Before Building A Library

Unless you’ve been living under a rock for the past few months or so, you must know by now that we at NCSC have been collecting funds to build a library and a playground at Agosh Al-Khidmat Orphanage under the banner of Orphans kNOw More.

It is with great pride that we announce that the library has been completed and will be inaugurated on 14^th April, 2018. But before we begin telling you all about the inauguration, let us first regale with you with how the library came to be about- and what all you need to know before you begin building a library from the beginning.

Of all the things building a library from scratch entails, the most difficult decision is one you’d never expect. No, it is not the bookshelves. No, it’s not the books themselves. Nor is it the flooring or the lighting or the other furnishing. It is none of these.

The most difficult decision to make is picking out the perfect cloth, of the perfect shade, of the perfect color to make the perfect curtains. Yes, you read that right. Curtains are a major issue indeed – they cannot be too bright, nor too dull. Monochrome is too plain for a children’s library, and yet patterns are too loud. This was how OKM’s team found themselves standing for hours in curtain shops all around Saddar, figuring out which curtain would be just right – something most of them had never figured out before in their lives.

The bookshelves themselves comprised of no less amount of drama. To give the library a unique look, it was decided that the bookshelves would be in an unconventional style. This decision was made, sitting on brand new sofas, right there in the carpenter’s shop. Alas, if only the carpenter worked as much on his order as much as he did on his excuses, this would be a different story, but it wasn’t meant to be. From craftsmen who vanished at the most crucial of times, to all the usual family commitments *read as more excuses*, it took a great deal of time and an even greater deal of patience for the shelves to be constructed and then installed.

Where there are books, there must be light to read them. Lighting up the library was another matter entirely, and a serious one indeed. Various jirga sessions had to be conducted, right there on the floors of the shops for this all-important decision. The various attributes of hanging lights, lamps, LEDs were all discussed at length while the shopkeepers looked on with some dismay over the live debates that followed.

And of course, let’s not forget the bargaining hassles. What’s shopping without getting discounts, especially when you’re shopping on a budget and for a good cause? While some shop owners were sympathetic enough to donate items for free, there were many who had to be pled with. And then there were those who, upon seeing the envelope of donations full of Rs. 10s and Rs. 20s, themselves offered to lower their prices.

And last, but certainly not the least, this post is not possible without mentioning the struggles involved in buying the stars of the show – the books. The entire aim of the library revolves around the fact that reading habit needs to be encouraged in the children of Agosh. So, while searching for books to be placed in the library, there had to be a balance between the text, and colorful illustrations that would attract the children. And a sizable number of them were needed. The wealth of bookshops and stalls in Saddar proved to be invaluable in the variety of books they offered. The National Book Festival held at Pak-China Friendship Center was a jackpot in terms of all bookstalls being all close together. Some of the best finds of the library are a courtesy of the stalls there.

Speaking of courtesy, OKM’s team tried introducing the concept of ‘hadya’ or gift to the stall owners and shopkeepers, in which one item was added for free, as a gift to the orphanage. This initiative however, was not successful as hoped for, as only some laughingly agreed while most were determined to not give in.

Suffice to say, it’s been an interesting few weeks for OKM’s team. From scouring Saddar for everything from books, to light, to cushions, no stones were left unturned, no shops were left unopened, no shopkeepers were left untraumatized. ‘

But, as we place each new item on the shelves – the toys and the decorations, the books and the wall stickers – and see the excitement of the children peeking in through the doorway, it all becomes worth it. The exhaustion, the khwaari, the trips, the late night dashes back to hostel to be juuust barely in time for curfew, all of it means nothing in front of those awe-filled faces.

So join us this Saturday, 14^th of April, to witness the beginning of a new chapter in Project Orphans kNOw More. One thing is for certain – you will not regret it!

Footy Mania 2018 Ends on a High!

The 5^th annual edition of NCSC’s much-awaited futsal tournament, Footy Mania, took place from the 28^th till the 31^st of March.  The tournament featured several elite teams from the Twin Cities, along with a few teams hailing from different educational institutions. The lively grounds in front of the Concordia -1 Café served as the venue for four days of exhilarating and top quality futsal.

Futsal is a variant of traditional football, and is played on a smaller ground with only five players per side. This makes it a game requiring superb levels of technique, pace, skill and presence of mind; and the participating teams certainly did not lack these attributes.

The first two days witnessed the preliminary stage being played. It comprised of a round-robin league system, with the top teams progressing to the knockout stages.  The league stage saw tough competition from the teams, with most of the matches ending as draws or being decided by just a one-goal margin. Also present near the ground were the food stalls from popular franchises Subway and Burger King, which had offered discounts on their delicious items. The knockout matches took place on the 30^th March, and were even more thrilling.

The final day saw four teams, namely SMME, NICE FC, Yakha FC and Majaak FC battle it out in the semifinals in the evening. The teams were evenly-matched on paper, but NICE FC was able to win against Majaak FC 3-2 on penalties while Yakha FC edged past SMME with a score of 2-0.

The final attracted a large crowd which expected both teams to deliver their best in pursuit of the trophy. NICE FC had the home advantage, but it Yakha FC who stole the show by emerging as the champions by beating them 2-0.

The closing ceremony saw certificates being distributed to the winners, the runner-ups as well as to the referee. The chief guest of the occasion was DD Hostels, Athar Babar. Yakha FC were given Rs. 25,000 and NICE FC walked away with Rs. 10,000 as prize money. Momin Muneer of Mukao FC was the top scorer having scored four goals. The Fairplay Award was given to NICE FC on account of their sportsmanship. The revenue generated from the event was donated to the NUST Education Endowment Fund, which supports students who need financial aid to manage their educational expenses.

The event was well-managed by Waleed Khan and Sami Abdullah, who were active throughout and served as responsible event heads while working alongside the Organizing Committee. With the 2018 edition now done and dusted, it is time for everyone to take a breather before arrangements start for the next year’s tournament. Until then, it is farewell from our side. Adios!

Furqan Alavi

 

Fempower’s Baat Cheet- A Girls’ Evening

The Women of NUST Stood united on the 8^th of March, 2018 the International Women’s Day, at The Wall, NUST, to celebrate the endeavors of women stemming from different backgrounds and how they have risen up above it all, time and again. This is not only a necessary respect we must pay to those who have given up so much, but also a means to learn and reflect on ourselves to be able to do better in future.

The invites for the event were packed together in pretty pink parcels and given to all the female Office Bearers of all the societies at NUST. Additionally, the event was open for anyone and everyone who wanted to come. Girls sat around in circles, telling stories about their lives and inspiring each other to keep going on with a fire to strive and hold on even when things look bleak.

 

dav

dav

After sharing their individual stories, they began to sing in unison to celebrate their freedom. They sang their hearts out, singing songs both eastern and western, which in a way was almost poetic; indicating a blend of eastern and western culture that existed in harmony with one another. We often end up neglecting on or the other nowadays but these women showed us that it is verypossible.

Speaking of poetic, there was also a huge banner where women could write whatever they want. They wrote mostly motivational quotes to empower anyone reading them, however, there were some comedians out there and there were some funny quotes on it  as well.

Of course, no gathering is complete without tea, which was made absolutely free. The weather however, during all of this, was even better. It added an element of completeness to the whole occasion.

To signify the end of the event and the freedom of the women, symbolic lanterns were to be released, burning with the flames of passion women have showed in the past and soaring high like the women of today’s day and age shall. Unfortunately, the weather  didn’t quite agree with this arrangement. But they were certainly lit up and flown in spirit.

All in all though, it was a spectacularly planned event by the event heads Sumayya Ijaz and Rabail Lodhi with cooperation from everyone involved. Everyone showed immense spirit and it should serve as a reminder that women are pretty amazing!

Faraz Farooqui

NCSC Celebrates a Month of Happiness!

 

Come March, come the International Day of Happiness!

Founded in 2013 by Jayme Illien, an advisor to the United Nations, 20th March is celebrated world over. The day is dedicated to spreading joy and focusing on everything that is good in life, in attempt to get rid of the daily toxicity.

NUST Community Services Club needs no excuse to spread happiness, but as the day came closer, it decided to take it up in style! March was declared as the ‘Month of Happiness’, and everyone took to the cause of sharing what makes them happy! The trend was kicked off by team Publications, and soon the team Social Media Marketing started to participate with full vigour and posting with a hashtag ‘#ThisMakesMeHappyNCSC’ encouraging everyone to post pictures of their happy place, on their Instagram stories. It spread like wildfire! Before we knew it, not only members of NCSC but also followers of our page were fervently posting everything that makes them happy! The place was filled with positive vibes, and we would eagerly look forward to what NCSC’s official Instagram account had in store for us by checking it several times each day!

Suffice to say, NCSC celebrated March, its month of happiness, in the best way it could! To help you join in the fun we had, we’ve compiled some of the responses below! So come on, let’s get going, get happy!

 

The first one to start was our very own president:

There was an open confession for Director Publications (how could we not post this?)

There were warm feels

Some of them were rather questionable

And the voice of every Pakistani on the planet:

And then pairing it up with other life essentials

Somebody brought up our lifeline. We also suspect this was an aftereffect of an encounter with the wifi of NUST Hostels

Food and Travelling were popular choices

And this one executive who mentioned what everyone was missing out on, Memes!

Then, in a stroke of diplomacy, Director Publications listed everything that ever makes her happy about NCSC, hoping it would inspire others to do the same. It was. Very. Very. Long. By the time it  FINALLY ended, we’re sure we could’ve been to Spain and back. (Which is probably why it did NOT have its intended effect)

That one executive who still believes in chivalry, left us bewildered

And this one who finds joy in washing cars!

We also questioned what the PS could possibly mean by his last point (for sure?) but he rounded it off without explanation…

Director M and PR spoke for all our inner clean freak selves

And DD SMM rounded it all off in this one happy comment

And then began the Instagram posts!

Starting with Maha Khan, and the one thing which makes her most happy: us, of course!

Next came in our Press Secretary, Sarmad Farid, stating what we all know to be true

And this one bromance we’ve been supporting since forever

Also in full swing (quite literally with his bow and arrow) was our JS to GS, Abdullah Anwar

There was talk of arts, and it left us very impressed!

And poetry…

The beauty of nature, and the wonder that can be city life, was also mentioned:

 

 

 

Anndd we were back to FOOD, because honestly how long can you stay away from the place where all the happiness flows into the world?

 

 

Not to forget, those everyday fascinating things which fill you to the brim with a strange sense of peace and contentment…

 

 

 

What better kind of joy, than to be connected to Him?

And probably what we thought was one of the most adorable pictures ever!

 

Needless to say, it was a thrilling experience to get a chance to sneak into your souls! It is true what Dumbledore said, ‘Happiness can be found in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to switch on the lights’. It is indeed the smallest of things which, if we learn to appreciate, can colour our lives so vividly and make us content, happy individuals!

From that connection with the One above, love from friends and family and nature, to the bright city sphere, the food, and the sports, to poetry, architecture and art, there is so much to be grateful for and so much to be delighted about! We hope that by highlighting them, we gave you enough reasons to last a lifetime!

Happy Happiness Month to you once again, from the entire NCSC family!

 

Mahnoor Fatima

Breaking Records, Spreading Smiles: Blood Donation Drive 2018

This year, NCSC’s trademark Blood Donation Drive saw smiles being spread, red ribbons being flaunted, awareness being raised, and records being broken!

The Blood Donation Drive is one of the most anticipated events organized by the NUST Community Services Club. This year’s first Blood Donation Drive reached its conclusion recently. It was held from  20^th to the 22^nd of March 2018.

BDD’18 aimed at raising awareness about children with thalassemia. Thalassemia is a set of genetic diseases that causes the hemoglobin synthesis in a person to become faulty. This disease requires strenuous treatment and care, along with regular blood transfusions for the patients. Numerous organizations in Pakistan and all over the world are working for the treatment of this illness.
Jamila Sultana Foundation is one such organization that works for the prevention and treatment of this disease in Pakistan. This year, NCSC collaborated with the Foundation to conduct its Blood Donation Drive and all of its donations were sent to Jamila Sultana Foundation for the thalassemia patients.

Much talked about during the event was the ‘The Golden Drop’. It was the first time that a competition among the different schools of NUST was arranged that pertained to BDD. The idea behind the award was that this particular act of donation is so good, it’s golden! There was an air of high-spirited, yet good-natured competition all about the place. The competitive aspect of this served as a driving force (pun intended) for everyone to donate blood and get more points for their respective schools. SEECS took the lead in the competition with a whopping 125 donations, and won The Golden Drop award for this BDD! The other schools also played a major role in making this event the success it was.

This year’s edition of BDD saw to the achievement of a milestone that was the collection of a staggering 502 pints of blood, a feat which had not been accomplished before.

The presence of apt medical practitioners and equipment ensured the smooth execution of the event.  (A shout out to the Doctor Uncle who untiringly advised every single donor to drink 8-12 glasses of water daily!) The Organizing Committee for the BDD’18 worked day and night to make this event the success it was, and for that their efforts need to be appreciated.

These drives give an opportunity to all those who want to be of service to humanity, and what better way to do so than to give someone the gift of life. BDD serves as the celebration of our ability to collectively overcome our difficulties and to be an unseen help to someone you’ve never met.  It is times like these when one’s faith in humanity is reaffirmed!

While the dark clouds did threaten to pour like during the last Blood Donation Drive, this time things went as smoothly as possible. Smiles were spread all around, achievements were unlocked, awareness was raised, humanity was served and the world was left a bit better, a tad happier. And that was NCSC’s first Blood Donation Drive of the year 2018!

With that, we would also like to congratulate the core team of BDD, for the successful execution of a fabulous event!

Mehreen Shabbir

5 Reasons Why Footy Mania 2018 Will be the Best One Yet!

By: Furqan Alavi

 

Futsal.

A game declared by Neymar to be “a fundamental part of a footballer’s life”. And the world’s most expensive player was not wrong here, given that the game simultaneously involves technique, speed, and skill moves. This variant of football is, without a doubt, extremely popular in the Twin Cities, and its popularity has carried it all the way into NUST, where the NUST Community Services Club (NCSC) annually organizes its very own futsal tournament: Footy Mania. The 2018 edition of the tournament will be held from 28^th to 31^st March, and this time, it will be bigger than ever before! Here are 5 reasons why YOU should board its hype train:

 

1) Two Tournaments (Wait, What?)

It has been observed that at university tournaments, junior teams hesitate to participate due to tough competition from the ‘big boys’. Well, we have good news for you, young lads! NCSC, believing in providing opportunities for everyone to showcase their skills, has decided to organize a second tournament exclusively for the Under-16 teams! They will compete against other teams from their own age bracket, and this tournament will run parallel to the main tournament (because organizing only one tournament is too mainstream!). Two tournaments now mean more action, more goals, more saves and more adrenaline!

To pass or to dribble?

2) Bigger Prize Pool

All the blood, sweat and tears will not go in vain, as huge prizes await those who outperform other teams!  The winners and runner-ups in the main tournament (no age limit) will receive Rs. 25,000 and Rs. 10,000 respectively, while the winners and runners-up in the Under-16 tournament will be entitled to amounts of Rs. 16,000 and Rs. 8,000 respectively!  That’s a lot of cash to play for, folks, so be sure to play no holds barred (but still, try to avoid injuring yourself as well as others).

Aerial view of NUST H-12 Campus

3) The NUST Scene

NUST’s H-12 campus is known for its huge area, iconic scenery and excellent cafeterias. You cannot help but be astounded by the views offered by the various vantage points. Or, if you’re hungry, there’s always a café or a canteen nearby to satisfy your taste buds. Moreover, previous years’ tournaments have attracted a large number of spectators who cheer every goal, look on with anticipation, and chant along with the players. The atmosphere is euphoric under the floodlights, and believe us, you do NOT want to miss out on that!

Winners of the 2017 edition: Gucci FC (aka Gucci Gang)

4) Excellent Legacy

The current edition follows in the footsteps of successfully organized tournaments in the previous years. Every year, the onus is on NCSC, to deliver, and that is exactly what they do! They celebrate their successes and improve upon their shortcomings, thus  setting higher standards for themselves for years to come!

Food stalls await you!

5) Chance to Contribute to a Noble Cause

NCSC aims to serve the underprivileged segments of the society and to help them achieve self-sufficiency. For this, it is important to contribute financially, as well as physically. NUST’s Education Endowment Fund is an initiative to help out the bright students who are fiscally weak. NCSC has generously decided that all the generated profit from Footy Mania 2018 will be donated to the aforementioned fund. It is hoped a large number of teams will participate which means a bigger donation to the said cause! When was the last time you played AND served the community at the same time?

 

So gather your friends, build your team, and register NOW at bit.ly/2E7omoC

For more details, visit the event page: www.facebook.com/events/1389383284524068/

See you all there!

I am NCSC- ‘Assi NCSC Aan’

One of the most awaited events for the NCSC family are the ‘I am NCSC’ gatherings, the purpose of which is to give the members a chance to know each other and grow a special bond.

The most recent installment in this series took place on Thursday,  1st March 2018, and was hosted by the teams Publications and M and PR. Taking the awesomeness a notch further, the theme for the event called for the desification of the art of cosplaying.

To get everyone up on their feet and running, Publications kicked off the meet up with a Scavenger Hunt, very carefully planned by the DDs, complete with rhyming clues. Over the course of this hunt, the participating teams acquired newfound appreciation for some of the trademark places in NUST. As the game progressed, team members frantically tried to search the designated guides with their clues to the right places; upon spotting, they went gaga- shouting from far away ‘Pakro issay!’

(Bonus: If you couldn’t make it to the party, we’ve included two clues, just to give you a taste of the Treasure Hunt, can you guess what they could be?)

‘What’s that whirring sound,

There’s nothing around,

With so much around,

Wonder where I might be found?’

 

‘I used to have some substance,

But now I’ve just gone dry,

And so many scholars pass by me,

And yet, no one wonders why?’

In the end, Team C made it to the final destination before everyone else. They even managed to decipher the very misleading ‘SEECS’ clue which was the source of a lot of confusion. We also heard reports of their defeat being blamed on an innocent Publications executive, who claimed he was just doing his job.

Staying true to their promise, the organizers awarded the winning team with ‘Jewels’ (yes, the pretty boxed chocolates, because we never lie about ‘Treasure’) Café’ 309 was chosen as the place for the gathering, where M and PR had arranged for a free barbeque, though this wasn’t revealed until the very moment of the meet up. The planned spontaneity was a source of stirring excitement.  (We also managed to spot a few wandering executives who were sighted only as the food came out, but we’re not complaining!)

Winners of the Treasure Hunt!

 

Amongst the more prominent desi cosplayers were the President and GS,  Maha and Azan. Everyone got worried when they couldn’t find Maha for the group photo. There was one rumor in particular that got circulated really fast; ‘the possible abduction of Georgie by Pennywise’.

Our very own Georgie!

Meanwhile, Azan managed to scoop up the award for the best costume with his Desi Cupid attire, with a prop which read ‘Just Married”, that put every cheesy Pakistani hero to shame.  A surprising number of enthusiastically dressed up members like the desified versions of Maleficent, Dobby the Elf and a black sunglasses clad Dare Devil were also seen. All of them had something interesting to bring to the stage.

Desi Cupid

(from left to right) Desified Hobbit, ‘Bat-Man’ (a man who carried a bat, it was a pun), Tommy Shelby, Bad Girl (from Gujurat) and Dobby the Elf

The food was was enjoyed as the humorous confessions and questions were read out loud. There were more than a hundred responses, which covered every little detail that bothered any NCSC member ever- or so it seemed. We heard talk of questionable email ids, pleas like ‘saans lay lo bhai’, questions like ‘masla kia hai apka’, ‘Kabhe kisi makhi ko bhe nuqsan pohanchaya hai apnay?’,  ‘shodhi kyun hain ap’ ‘kab insan bano gay’, ‘ why so cute?’,‘kia roag hai bhai?‘, requests for lame riddles, farewell messages, those of appreciation ‘You da best prezi’, ‘ you are so adorable’, ‘candids ache leti hain sir’, random observations, ‘dar sa lagta hai apsay’, ‘inko men pasand hun’ , ‘bohat tez bolti hain’,’saru insan’, and so much more! How wildly popular the session became, was a sweet little achievement in itself.

 

The strong winds didn’t sway the delight that the moment carried. The evening ended on a high note, with a struggle to get the whole of the team in one frame and to capture the awe-inspiring skies above! And that was the essence of ‘I am NCSC’-! We tried to capture it, but really, if you weren’t there, you wouldn’t know!

Mehreen Shabbir

Mahnoor Fatima

Stories and Balloons: An Afternoon with Kalon

 

On the sunny winter afternoon of 16th February, Team Kalon set out for Ghonsala Girls Orphanage to spend a day with the young girls there, as part of their plans of grooming and empowering them. They were to leave at 1 pm from SADA, but fate had other plans. A few humble members of NCSC waited for an entire hour before the transport showed up, while others conveniently appeared only when they knew it had arrived- and they were off!

After a long trip to the orphanage, the team stood waiting outside, many jumping to conclusions and declaring nobody would let them in. Fortunately, the gate sprung open and they entered to find that the girls were having lunch. A cheeky SMM executive inquired if she could join them, because the long wait had made her awfully hungry- alas, her request was ignored.

The day’s activities kicked off after the girls sat in a circle, and all the volunteers surrounded them. A big bag of bright yellow balloons was opened and everyone was given one to blow up, and tie to their leg. The air was filled with excitement, with one balloon after the other coming into existence (a few of which left the world too soon). President NCSC’s camera was also in attendance, handled by the PS and GS in turns, both of whom tried their best to capture awkward moments, a feat nobody let them succeed in.

Waiting to hear what they were going to do

Once everyone was in position, the game began. There was shuffling, attempts at running, squeals of joy and panic at getting? caught. There were A LOT of blasts. In the end, our PS, who was standing on the side capturing pictures, was the only one left with an intact balloon – which, upon realising, he tried to save frantically as the young girls tried to burst it.

The second activity involved the art of creating and telling stories. A word bank was given to the girls, who were divided in groups, each with a council member assigned to it. They brainstormed and tried to make stories that included the maximum number of words from the bank AND made sense, such that they would read as fun, interesting pieces.

The word bank

The girls narrated, and volunteers put them down on paper. We also hear that a certain Director was found out to have the worst Urdu penmanship that NCSC has seen these many years *cough* *publications* *cough*. It was a race against time, there was furious narrating and writing, until the time was up! PS NCSC, was spotted quickly writing down the story all on his own, after which he proudly claimed ‘WE are done’ (his team members were nowhere to be seen).

 

The stories were read aloud. NCSC council members, the generous sponsors of the stories, felt a certain degree of competition with their peers. There was friendly banter, extra cheering on stories for their own team. Comments like

‘Iska climax kahan hai?’
‘Yeh story puri plagiarised hai’
‘Humari copy karni ki kia zarurat thi’
were on the rise. (Treasurer, GS NCSC we’re looking at you)

Reading aloud their stories

DD Marketing’s story also won a silent ‘shortest-story-which-lasted-for-two-lines’ award, but in his defence, that was only one of the TWO stories they wrote. Well, okay.

Everyone laughed, clapped and enjoyed themselves immensely. It was getting late so the event heads, Tasmia Irshad and Wajiha Zafar, decided they’d call it a day. Everyone said their goodbyes, promised to be back again and headed towards NUST, pleased with how the day had turned out in the end.

 

Mahnoor Fatima

Stepping in the Shoes of the Unseeing

Rays of sunlight permeating through the haze, struggling to dominate the atmosphere: it was a typical winter morning towards the end of December. But  something special for all adventurous souls was coming up; the event “Blindfolded Wall Climbing” was scheduled for this day!

Climbing, besides being a basic human instinct, helps in overcoming the fears and challenges by testing one’s limits. This year’s contest was organized by NUST Community Services Club (NCSC) in collaboration with the Para Climbing Club of Pakistan (PCC) and Red Bull and ARY as the lead sponsors of the event. Blindfolded Wall Climbing is not just limited to being a captivating activity, it is much more. It aims to create a sense of solidarity with the visually-impaired, to help participants ‘see’ life from a different perspective, which is what makes it one of NCSC’s most awaited events.

The IBEX Adventure Club wall at Lake View Park, Islamabad, was ready to witness the contest for which  many enthusiastic participants had gathered round. The event kicked off with a brief introduction of PCC and its activities, followed by a warm up session under the supervision of experts. A highly competitive qualifying round was organized to shortlist the top ten climbers. The climbers gave their best shots, but unfortunately, a few stumbled in the way and missed their chance of making it to the final round. To the climbers’ joy, a refreshment session was arranged after the qualifying round. The top ten climbers were all set to comptete for the top slot! The qualifying round had set the bar high; it was a contest of best among the best!

All eyes were set on the final round, and it was as enthralling as one could expect! After a fierce round, Sarmad Farid, Vice President NCSC, managed to grab the top slot with a record breaking time of 22.5 seconds! The winners were then commended for their efforts and all participants were awarded with certificates. Everyone went home with renewed spirits, of having spent a day full of energy, sports and returned more grateful than ever after experiencing firsthand the trials and tribulations of those without sight.

 

Muhammad Awais Sultan

SOS Olympiad 2017: Connecting on the Playgound!

In today’s increasingly segmented society, our foremost aim must be to remove the lines that divide us. Fortunately, there is a space where all of this comes to life: the play ground.  A vast green field under a clear sky where everyone jumps with joy and leaves their pains in the dust for a blissful, fleeting moment. A place where it doesn’t matter where you are from, how you look, how you speak, and what you believe in; where all those awful, and disruptive lines are erased, and we begin as equals.

And that is exactly why, this December, NUST Community Services Club came back with an event solely for our loved ones at the SOS Village! The SOS Olympiad was designed specially for the children of SOS, inviting them to NUST, and letting them experience the thrill of the game on the battlefield of sports!

They were divided into teams, with names based on the precious young gems of Pakistan. ‘Aitzaz Titans’, in memory of Aitzaz Hasan Bangash Shaheed, who sacrificed his life preventing a suicide bomber from entering his school of 2,000. ‘Shahlyla Defenders’, to honour Shahlyla Ahmadzai Baloch, the first Pakistani woman to score a hat trick in a football match. ‘Maseeh Warriors’ to honour Iqbal Masih, who became a symbol against child labour. And, ‘Arfa Victors’, in memory of Arfa Karim, the youngest Microsoft Prodigy. These were meant to inculcate not only good skills, but also to inspire them to be fearless and persevere in the cause, just like the individuals they were honouring.

There were exciting matches of Football, where each team had a student of NUST assigned to it. This motivated the  children even further. What was heartening to see was that, they showed deep respect for their elders. Even if victory was not to be theirs, they still embraced it with a wonderful spirit. To them, the game was all that mattered!

Matches of cricket, tug-of-war and ludo were also played with a competitive spirit, and served to promote camaraderie. Not only did the boys play very well, the girls excelled in all games too!

Magic wands and crystal balls may appear to be a fantasy of Hogwarts and Narnia, but how is a bat shaped from the finest willow, hitting spectacular sixes out of nowhere, and taking everyone’s breath away, any less entrancing? A fortune-teller may be deceptive but a searing football kick into the nets is as real as it gets! Why pull on each other’s hair, feelings and progress, when teams can have a go on a tightrope, and get much more fun out of it? That was the goal that NCSC had in mind, and we are extremely pleased to say that it was successfully acheived!

The SOS Olympiad ended with awards and mentions for everyone who excelled on the field (yes, the commentator included!). It was a learning experience for not only the students, but also all the members of NCSC. We would like to congratulate the entire core team on the successful execution of this splendid event. We hope to see it again, next year!

Haseeb Kazmi

In Memory of December 16th, 2014

Three years ago, on this very day, Pakistan was plunged into uncharted depths of tragedy and suffering. More than a hundred innocent children lost their lives, and more than a hundred families got destroyed. Along with them, an entire nation grieved.

Now, on its third anniversary, our emotions remain the same. We still feel the same hopelessness, the same despair. We still feel our hearts curling up into a hundred knots, unable to bear the weight of the lives that were lost that day.

As writers, we put into words our emotions, we string together beautiful sentences and heart-wrenching poems that serve as windows into our own hearts. This is our way of venting the fires that burn inside of us.

Today, we do the same.

~

It was a cheerful Tuesday morning,
Flooding rays from a golden sun,
Chirping birds and honking cars,
A new day at school had just begun.

Innocent chatter echoing in the hallway,
Giggling groups getting scolded in class,
Studying diligently, teasing friends,
Smiles through which misery shall never pass.

For a micro-second the world stood still…

A harrowing scream, they couldn’t believe,
Disorder and chaos, they came out to see,
Earth shattering cries, held back all alone,
And suddenly, is he really coming after me?

Masked his face, his eyes doors to hell,
Deafening shots fired, thousands in the air,
Not soldiers, fallen angels on this battlefield,
Save me God, I’m too young to be here.

Don’t whisper, don’t scream…

Hold your breath my friend, look at those eyes,
There’s violent fear, don’t let it show,
Lie down, or this heart will fall to the ground,
Its pumping out of control, stay low, stay low.

Close your eyes, you are dead,
Close your eyes, it will be over soon,
Close your eyes, you’ll make it out alive,
Close your eyes, this terrifying noon.

In between a wish of dying, and not…

Come out, young one they’re gone now,
Close your eyes, the floors are painted red,
And lying in corners are people you knew,
Hush! Don’t cry! They are in heaven, not dead.

And as the sun sets on 16th December,
The grounds of APS have laughter no more,
Eerie black shadows and numbing silence,
As caskets of their bodies line the floor.

They left too soon…

No tears shall wash away the stains they left,
Plaguing our hearts, wounds not healed yet,
So, let’s raise our hands in prayer for justice,
Come what may, we will never forget.

By: Mahnoor Fatima

~

            He left the lights on in the bathroom again. It’s a wonder he doesn’t leave the faucet running, praise the Lord for that. I mean, he’s going to turn ten this year; it’s about time he learned to take some responsibility. My frustration began to build up like bricks constituting a wall as I entered his room, only to see his bed not made, his clothes scattered around the floor as if he artfully laid them there, ants attacking an opened bag of stale chips, the computer still making noises from the game he was playing last night. Well, at least now I know why it took me five times to wake him up today. Kashif thinks I’m too easy on him and that I let him do whatever he wants, but I always tell him, “Hamza will go crazy if we’re both restricting him for something he did, the boy needs a balance!” I smile at the thought, and the so-called ‘brick’ wall of frustration vanished as easily as the coin in a magicians trick. Poof. I think to make him his favorite lunch for when he gets home from school.

I enter the kitchen, and gather all the essential ingredients. A mere half an hour passes by, and the house is immediately filled with the aroma of spices, garlic, and ginger. The bell rings, and I rush to open the door with a glass of water in my hand. He’s usually out of breath, his face gleaming with sweat, and he purposely pants like a dog. But, when I open the door, it’s Kashif, home early from work again. He takes my glass of water like he was expecting it, and settles in the living room.

A few hours pass by, and Hamza is still not home yet. I begin to bite my nails, only to see raw, chewed on skin. And, I suddenly remember he had an extra class at school today. Here I was, worrying for no reason. I settle down with Kashif in the living room.

****************

It’s almost 7, and I realize I should’ve called the school a while ago. I immediately pick up the phone to call the principal’s office just as she was leaving, to inquire about my son. She seemed unsure of what to say to me, which provided the fuel that was needed to make the spark inside me grow into a raging fire. What do you mean, you don’t know?

****************

I run upstairs, my mind frantic, and open the bedroom door so hard it slams into the wall, but Kashif is unfazed.

“Aren’t you even a bit worried he’s not home yet? No one knows where he is!”

All of a sudden, I couldn’t breathe. Kashif had his hands around my throat, squeezing the air, the life out of me. I was powerless, I could feel my eyes popping out of my sockets as I sunk to the ground. There was a growing pain in my chest. And that’s when I saw Hamza playing soccer on the field, his feet moving the ball so quickly, my eyes couldn’t keep up. My eyes couldn’t keep up, so I closed them.

****************

Kashif: It’s been almost 3 years since Hamza died in the APS massacre.

Doctor: And she still thinks it’s you choking her?

Kashif: Yes.

 

By: Maham Zeb

~

The APS tragedy, which took place on the infamous day of 16^th December 2014, sent ripples throughout the country. No citizen was left emotionally untouched by this fateful event, which took the lives of 144 innocent souls. Three years have passed now, and most of us have moved on and are going about our daily lives. But for some, every day is 16^th December. Every day brings back the dreaded memories. Every day scars them. Every day is spent waiting for a child to return home from school.

 

Gone, but never forgotten.

 

Mahnoor Fatima
Maham Zeb
Furqan Alavi
Ishaq Ibrahim

 

Letters Float Away in OKM’s Second Visit

Wide smiles, excited yells, and exuberant children running about – once again OKM’s visit began with a frenzy of activity.

That excitement only heightened when they were presented with their first activity: modeling a sculpture using clay. Keeping in mind their fondness for the roof, the children were divided into groups of two or three among the volunteers and then taken there. Seated on mats, with an array of colors at hand, and the wide, open sky as the limit for their creativity, the kids made different sculptures – some made as many as they could, while others kept redesigning their existing ones.

The next activity was perhaps the cornerstone of this year’s OKM. Files were given to each volunteer for the children assigned to them. Inside were instructions on specific questions to ask about the sculpture. Using their responses and their own words, the volunteers were able to help them construct beautiful poems about their models. These files were labeled with their names and then saved for analysis. 

The final activity for this visit consisted of the children writing a letter to their best friends. While most were not very enthusiastic about the letter writing part, tying those letters to the helium balloons and sending them off into the world certainly seemed to be the most favorite moment of the day.

Even with minor setbacks such as the letters unable to float, and dozens of children all clamoring for the same balloons, the day ended with smiles, laughter and cheers.

Marrium Mansoor

 

A Day Out in the Park with Little Heroes

Spirits were sky-high on Sunday, the 19^th of November, when a team consisting of over 25 individuals of NCSC’s project ‘Orphans Know More’ took off from NUST.  On the way to the orphanage, there was excitement, enthusiasm and a very positive energy lingering in the air as the team cracked jokes and bonded in the bus.

Upon arriving at the orphanage, we noticed a small minibus taking off and realized that the minibus was full of the children we had planned to meet! Apparently, they were on their way to a park. Hence, it was decided that we weren’t going to visit them at the orphanage anymore… we were going to go visit them at the park instead!

OkM is always full of warmth and compassion.

After reaching the park, we got off, unloading as quickly as possible. We rushed along to meet up with the children and divided ourselves into groups accordingly. Some of us played tag while others played catch-catch. We engaged the young ones in photoshoots, hand painting sessions and football. Some members also managed to take some of the children to the zoo nearby. Most of the children, however, seemed to enjoy playing football the most as we kicked the ball and chased each other around the field as laughter filled the air.

 

A familiar sight: bonding at OkM

 

The day proceeded as such until it was finally time for lunch. This was when members really got a chance to sit down with the children and converse with them. The children talked about their dreams while the members told them about their own.  They talked about what they wanted to do with their lives. Some wanted to be engineers and some wanted to go into the military. The most heartwarming response I personally heard was when they said they wanted to be heroes. If only they knew that they were already heroes in our eyes!

 

Their want to contribute to society despite the circumstances really spoke for itself. Their want to protect loved ones really reminded us of our responsibilities as humans. However, what caught our attention the most was their generosity. They offered their own food multiple times to team members. They offered to feed us with their own hands, insisting on feeding us personally until we gave in!  How beautiful and pure are the hearts of these children; they really do want to make the world a better place!

 

Deep in conversation with the little ones

After eating with the children and getting to know them, it was, unfortunately, time to go. We got ready to leave but our new friends swarmed around us, clinging to some of us and asking us to stay longer! So we gave them our phone numbers and asked them to contact us any time they needed someone to talk to.

After packing up, we got on the bus, this time quietly; everyone contemplating the things they learnt that day. We were all taught lessons that day that we would keep with ourselves throughout our lives. It was an experience we would never forget. That day we were reminded that there are people out there that we can make happy. There are people we can make smile. That day we were reminded of why we joined NCSC and that orphans really do know more!

 

Faraz Farooqui

NCSC’s Blood Donation Drive Breaks Records!

Walls clad with posters surrounded by bats and people rushing to the camp at IGIS ground with an intention to serve the community, this sight marked the beginning of the much-awaited Blood Donation Drive 2017!

 

Rushing to get registered!

 

NUST Community Services Club (NCSC) kickstarted the flagship drive on 14^th November, with “Dark and Dank” as its theme. Conducted in collaboration with Pakistan Red Crescent Society (PRCS), this year’s BDD had bigger challenges and higher targets ahead of it. The event received an overwhelming response from students and staff members of NUST, who turned to IGIS ground in numbers. The donors had with them, an unparalleled passion to help the sufferers with their contributions of blood!

 

President NCSC 2016-17, donating blood at this year’s drive.

 

The wholly altruistic desire to help others took over the fear of needles for many, with the first day setting a steep trend for the BDD’17. The sky was darkening to gravel-grey, indicating a possible interruption in the donation activity. What started as occasional thunderclaps ended in heavy showers. But, thanks to the diligent volunteers, BDD was back on track within a few minutes!

 

Camp BDD set at IGIS Ground.

Their painstaking efforts made the transition of venue to NUST Medical Center on the very first day, a flawless one. The weather did not flicker the unwavering resolve of the blood donors, the long queues at the medical center being the testimony of that. The NCSC members and volunteers were seen rushing to C1 and C2 to motivate the potential donors, and provide them transport to the venue.

BDD ’16 had set the record of 306 pints, and at BDD ’17, NCSC was challenged to support even more patients. The third and the final day was earmarked by the visit of Rector NUST, who donated blood as a symbol of encouragement for the donors.

Rector NUST posing with the BDD’s OC.

The drive was approaching the finishing line and the number of donors was increasing significantly. With the drive entering its final stages, all eyes were set to the total count mark. The efforts of the whole organizing team had paid off, when the total count touched the mark of 426 pints! There were smiles all around, coupled with a sense of fulfillment; the joy on their faces told a story of victory: they had succeeded once again!

 

Muhammad Awais Sultan

 

8 Types of People You Come Across at NCSC’s Blood Donation Drive!

NCSC’s trademark event, the Blood Donation Drive, is around the corner once again! Over the years, it has developed into one of the most impactful and successful events of NUST, collecting up to 300 pints of blood in one of its recent editions. Several organizations have collaborated with NCSC to conduct these events, including the likes of Jamila Sultana Foundation and the Pakistan Red Crescent Society.

However, the event also has its fair share of the kind of people that show up to it. Here is a list of people that you should be on the lookout for when you come to donate blood next week (we’d ask you to catch them red-handed, but then there’s a chance you’ll end up on the red end of the proceedings yourself).

 

1)     Those who are driven by the prospect of photographs

Who does not like a good photograph of themselves? Especially if it has been taken with a DSLR, AND taken while you’re donating blood?

But of course, these people demand that their photos be taken. They are the reason we have to set up a photobooth at the event (you’re welcome)  However, they are the easiest catch, because all you need is a DSLR and a trained pair of hands snapping amazing (and unreal) pictures, so we’re not complaining!

2)     Those who see the photographer and immediately run the other way

Unlike the previous class, this group of people do not want to be clicked while donating blood. Out of some sense of humility, or merely drawing from inner social awkwardness, these people make sure a photographer isn’t hanging around when they’re donating blood.

3)     The pervasive mufta squad

This is a group we are all familiar with. The typical mufta party seen at every event, participants or not, keeping their eyes on the food and making sure they get a piece of it (or much more than a piece)

At the BDD, these people go through the entire unfulfilling ordeal of donating blood, but then walk out holding boxes containing sandwiches, donuts, and juices, and with a look on their face that says: Mission Accomplished!

4)     The Buddha-inspired self-starving ones

These are people best described as recipes for disaster. They have not had their breakfast, nor have eaten anything since the morning. Then they show up to donate blood. After that, when they do get their lunch boxes and juices, they decide to take them along on their starvation-adventures which are unfortunately cut short when they faint and fall to the ground.

 

5)     Those who are there for the medical check up

If you didn’t know already, the blood donation process is preceded by a medical examination conducted by a group of professionals who check your blood group and your haemoglobin (HB) count.

Now these people are the ones who surprisingly disappear after the medical check-ups, with worried executives failing to find them anywhere. We are still working on figuring out what causes these mysterious disappearances, and do hope those people are all safe (or are we? you ditchers, youu)

6)     Those afraid of needles

This one is another classic. Every BDD has its own ‘afraid of needles’ group of people who have to be bound to their bed in chains (not really) when it is time to extract their blood. The hair-thin, shiny, and pointed sight of the needle sends a chill down their spines, and they have to be calmed down before anything can be done. Come on people, it doesn’t hurt any more than a mosquito bite!

7)     That one group scared by the sight of blood

Forgive us for saying this, but it IS a rather bloody affair. However, not everyone is dazed by this.  Unfortunately, there are those who after seeing their blood undergoing experiments and then being collected in a bag, waste no time in falling sick themselves. It is with this group that we decide they are more in need of the blood than anyone else.

To top it all off, when they turn their face away in revulsion, an innocent-looking drop of blood made out of chart paper naively looks back at them with a smile on its face. Now that is a nice horror story.

8)     The NCSC executives who are forced to donate blood

These people have their duties on the event days, but try to stay low-profile and avoid the sight of  Directors and Office Bearers. They are seen conversing with the walls and empty pockets of space, at other times blending in well with a group of post-donation blood donors. In the end however, all it takes is one unlucky encounter with a senior and off they go to the donation ward!

And that’s all, folks!

Whatever their quirks, these people do show up to donate blood (except those who run away mid-process), and that is something we value them for, immensely! We hope they continue making a difference to society, moving Pakistan towards the goal of having more willing donors than patients requiring that blood.

And to those who still haven’t been to a BDD, this is your chance! Everything will be ready and waiting conveniently for you in the IGIS ground from the 14^th to 16^th of November, and all you have to do, is show up! It can’t be that hard, right?

Looking forward to seeing you all there!

 

Ishaq Ibrahim

OKM Begins Once More

A project that started just over two years ago, Orphans kNOw More (or OKM as it is affectionately known) aims to bring care, love and guidance into the lives of those children who are deprived of it the most- orphans. And looking at those children now, after fortnightly visits spread over the span of two years, you can see the visible difference.

The first visit of this year was conducted on 5th November 2017. Its purpose- to let the new council members familiarize themselves with OKM, as well as introduce them to the challenges (and joys) of working with children filled with seemingly endless energy.

Each and every trip that OKM conducts, consists of activities designed with specific purposes from giving the children outlets for expressing themselves, to helping them develop basic skills they will undoubtedly need ahead of them.

The activities conducted in this particular trip included reading out small children’s books to improve their reading skills, help them learn new words and assist them in developing their imagination. 

Storybook Reading

The second activity planned was designed to add some fun into revising multiplication tables. Consecutive numbers were written on flashcards that were then taped to successive steps on the staircase. The children were told to then go to the specific number in a table, like two multiplied by three and so on. The last activity planned was to encourage the children to express themselves more freely so that it would diminish their frustration and help them self-analyze both their shortcomings as well as their good qualities.

The volunteers were assigned groups of three children to conduct the activities with. After the activities, the newly minted ‘OKM Move’ was performed to the utmost delight of the children, and thus ended OKM’s first visit – with everyone revitalized, re- and ready to face everything this upcoming year brings. 

OKM Move

 

NCSC ‘Plays’ its Part in the Breast Cancer Awareness Month!

The Pink Ribbon is an internationally recognized symbol for Breast Cancer Awareness. Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer in the female population of the world, and is especially prevalent in the Asian countries. Pakistan has the highest statistics for the spread of breast cancer in Asia, with 1 out of every 9 females being diagnosed with this ailment. Creating awareness and helping in the early diagnosis of the disease is the key factor in its damage control.

A pretty pre-event poster!

Playing its part in creating a well-informed society, NUST Community Services Club organized the Pink Ribbon event as part of the International Breast Cancer Awareness month. The main purpose was to create awareness about the malady that is breast cancer. The marketing strategy for the Pink Ribbon event was both, unique and whimsical. The invitations were attached to pink helium balloons and were sent to float all around the café. Contribution towards Hair to Help, in the form of hair donations for the victims of breast cancer, by our very own NUSTians was encouraged with the help of our sponsors, Alle’Nora and Porcelain!

At the event day itself, 19th October 2017, C1 was filled to the brim with a crowd that was full of energy! The main courtyard was closed, a feat which was not easy to accomplish- but NCSC delivered!  Surmounting the vastness of C1 were widened eyes and flecks of pink. The floating pink balloons showcased the hope against the odds!

Filling in!

 

A hush fell over the crowd as the play began and the performers began captivating the crowd. They perfectly portrayed a roller coaster of emotions a cancer patient suffers through: the depression, the uncertainty, the pain, the absolute terror, and the eventual acceptance of her defeat.

A heart wrenching climax

 

 

And she survives…

In addition to being wildly successful,  the play was especially poetic.

 

Pink was all around, it was la vie en rose,

It was life through rose colored glass,

It was life with a dash of awareness,

It was life with a hint of acceptance,

It was the Pink Ribbon, for the bekhabar!

 

Mehreen Shabbir

NCSC Sets Sail as New Recruits Climb Aboard!

NUST Community Services Club (NCSC) organized its welcome session for the fresh recruits on Friday, October 13, 2017. The session started after an hour’s delay (seriously! what’s the deal here, guys?), and was headed by Sheikh Rehan and Hamza Munir, who could be seen tirelessly ensuring that everything proceeded smoothly.

It kicked off with a speech from last year’s President, who had been specially invited for the event. He shared his wonderful experience of NCSC with the audience, and motivated the impressionable young minds to actively play their part in the Club. Then, the incumbent President, Maha Khan, gave her welcome address and took the oath from the new recruits.

NCSC’s Office Bearers for 2017-18 take their oath.

Next, the ever-active Vice-President Sarmad Farid, along with the rest of the Office Bearers, explained the hierarchy of NCSC and enlivened the audience with their anecdotes and jokes. An interactive activity was carried out which led to an SOP of sorts to be formulated by taking into account the opinions of everyone present there (anonymously of course!).

On-track, Off-track, Zero Tolerance !

By the time this ended, it was already night. But of course, there is no welcome without an official group photo! This was taken on the steps outside the building using cellphone flashlights. It was a memorable snap, indeed.

Was our group photo lit or what?

Just when it looked like food would finally be provided, the talent show aka Open Mic began! The next half an hour or so saw a host of singers and dancers take the stage and enthrall everyone with their flair (the future of the society looks good in this regard). Then, someone played Tunak Tunak Tun, so naturally almost every able-bodied guy walked up and danced around to the ubiquitous tune.

Finally, the organizers brought burgers and drinks for everyone. There were some reports of a female member from the decor portfolio taking some money from the new recruits in the name of ‘registration fee’ (which turned out to be a prank, phew!). The event was very well-planned and although it took way longer than it should have, the directors termed this as one of the best welcomes in recent times, which made the new recruits more thankful for the whole ordeal.

NCSC would like to congratulate all its new recruits and wish them all the best for the term ahead!

Furqan Alavi

New Beginnings at NCSC!

With the beginning of a new academic year at NUST, came new vibrant minds, all set to paint the world with the spectrum of their own colors! To help them materialize their dreams, NUST Community Services Club gave them a chance to become a part of its council.

Known for its dedicated student body, selfless commitment for its cause, and the wondrous ability to make things fun, NCSC is undoubtedly the liveliest club of NUST! Hence, it is usually the first preference of many young aspirants. The Recruitment Drive 2017, was thus conducted to change their lives forever!

 

It all began when two industrious members of NCSC, Junaid Ahmed and Farooq Khan, undertook its headship, vowing to make it bigger and better than ever! With the help of a large organizing committee, online and ground marketing was started for the promotion and announcement of the official dates for the Drive. Registration began on 18th September, and continued till 1st October, 2017.

An Information Session was also conducted for interested individuals who wanted to know more about NCSC. Pictured above: Press Secretary, NCSC.

 

The interview sessions for all the portfolios kicked off on 25th September, and were conducted at various locations, including the Concordias, SMME and Administration buildings. In an air full of tension and noise, candidates showed up with heavily pounding hearts, for an opportunity that not only gave them a glimpse of professional life, but also an experience worth remembering!

A glimpse from the Interviews Phase

 

Unlike others, the diligent directorate of NCSC looks beneath the surface, so you don’t necessarily have to be a master to get selected! Rather, passion and enthusiasm count just as much, and any expertise that you may have certainly helps your case! The office bearers and directors left no stone unturned during this process, to facilitate the interviewees in the best way possible, and helping them feel at ease!

“Most of the questions really made me think twice about my preparation. It wasn’t like some other mainstream interview when you already know most of the expected questions. It surely was one heck of a learning opportunity!” said a student, when asked about his experience.

Director Social Media and Marketing interviewing an applicant

 

The drive concluded on 6th October, following the walk-in interview sessions, where students from all over the university were invited to participate, regardless of the submission status of their application forms. The turnout did exceed expectations, with a startling number of responses. A whopping figure of around 1200 applicants recorded for this year made everyone’s efforts worthwhile!

Basically the response of everyone in the the Recruitment Drive’s OC! Congratulations to all of them!

 

For now, hopes are high, and a thrilling suspense prevails among the students as they are waiting for the results. NCSC wishes them all the best for what is to come!

 

Muhammad Abdullah

5 Reasons Why You Need to Join NCSC!

You’ve probably already heard about NUST Community Services Club. How could you not? We are the biggest, most successful society at NUST, after all.

*pulls out shades*

You might also have a fair idea of what we really do here, for orphans, women, transgenders, the physically impaired, the underprivileged and for humanity at large!

And yet, if you’re still asking yourself why you need to join NCSC, we completely understand! We know this is a big commitment, and we value that! So, here’s our round-up of the top 5 reasons why you REALLY need to join NCSC RIGHT NOW!

 

1) Good Vibes

At NCSC, we have plenty of positive vibes!  We thrive on them. They keep us going. The overall atmosphere is infectious, it catches on before you even know it! You might come into it as a skeptic, but the more you start spending time in the society, for all the causes that you do, the more it all starts tugging at your heartstrings.

You learn to be a better version of yourself. You grow to be more grateful of all that you have, when you see the stark difference between you and other individuals of the community. You think about the world around you, and emerge as a much better person.

Pfft, no it’s not cheesy, but you know what is?

 2) The After Parties!

There are A LOT of events at NCSC, and there is an after party after EVERY. SINGLE. ONE. Right after we get done with our work, we believe in celebrating our success! In a world of muftay, NCSC never shies away from rewarding those who deserve it!

So believe me when I say, yahan sabr ka pizza hamesha acha hota hai (though, on a sidenote, we must admit that C1 ka pizza is an acquired taste. But who cares? Treat tou treat hoti hai! And now you see what we meant by cheesy.)

3) No-Judgement Squad

At NCSC, we have a judgement-free zone. And no, we’re not saying that because it sounds cool, we really do mean it!  No matter who you are and what you love doing, we will accept you, give you a home and teach you how to love!

 We believe all human beings are awesome and give everyone an equal chance. Even if you’re not an expert in your chosen field, but are willing to work for our cause, we will take you in! We also organise workshops for different portfolios, so that you get a chance to properly hone your skills, something which no other society at NUST does! Because when we take you in, you become a part of us!

However, if you’re still not up for it…well, then…

*cough* warning letter *cough*

4) Commitment to Work

NCSC is not just a society, it’s a whole organization! You have to see it to believe it. There is a professional work environment, and everyone is extremely committed to their work. Everything has a formal procedure and a hierarchy is always followed.

Members take what they do very seriously and are very prompt in their actions. They meet deadlines, there is always a wide pool of people to take up the role of Event Heads, and they are more than willing to do whatever they can, regardless of whether it’s ‘their division’.

So, once you’re in NCSC, you will learn work ethics like nowhere else! I mean, we all know that everyone at home calls you ‘kabhe tou koi kam karlia karo’ affectionately, but once you join NCSC, that, my friend, will change!

Workaholics Unite (right after we’re done with this task, of course)

Waisay bhe, parhai may itni koi tabahi tou machani nae apnay, why not channelize your extra energy for a good cause? And honestly, C3 is Monal only the first few times. Then it’ll be like any other dhabba, so you might as well ditch those trips and come join us!

5) It’s Family!

At the end of the day, NCSC is not just a society, it’s an identity! You become a part of the largest family at NUST, and by that we mean wherever you go, no matter which department you’re in, you do find apnay NCSC kay loug, there. And even though we are more than 200 people, it never grows impersonal. The president tends to know every single person in the society. It’s like a big old Star Plus khandaan (without the drama, of course, or is it?)

It’s a family which manages to find fun everywhere, works when required, throws the best parties (yes, we also throw awesome farewells (Read: roast-fests for the entire council, specially the graduating batch), which will leave you in stitches) and goes on the most amazing outstation trips (did someone say camping? Uhh yes, we did!). But to top it all off, it sticks together, come what may, and that is what makes it all worthwhile!

So, are you still considering this?

We hope not!

Because, you might think you’re cool, but if you’re not NCSC-cool, are you even cool?

*the crowd roars in disapproval*

Start applying at the link below:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1gF5m3g0lN2WdP9RHDXjak6H0qM30Nwc9GlrQp5ip8ik/viewform?edit_requested=true

GET your passion for helping humanity out and bring forth your A-game, SET your goals straight and join in what matters, and get ready to SERVE the community!

What more is there to say?

On your marks, GET, SET, SERVE!

 

 Mahnoor Fatima

Head over to our YouTube channel to know more about us!

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMoOIb8TMQ-foann-zvzAAA

Cover Credits:

Huzaifa Irfan,

Team Graphics, NCSC

7 things you can do for your country right from home

This Independence Day,
“Don’t ask what this country has done for you, ask what you can do for this country!”

1. Plant a tree

But don’t forget to water it.

 

2. Tend to the minority

Remind them that they are our brothers, and Pakistan is as much theirs as any other Pakistani National’s. Choose any medium you can, but make sure they see it.

 

 

3. Share Pakistan’s positive image with your international friends

Share pictures of the scenic beauty we have or the delicious food or the mass scale social work Pakistani’s do. Highlight the positive! We have a lot of it.

(Gwadar Port)

(Biryani)

 

4. Donate to some trusted NGO, online

It can be Rs.100/- even.
Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital
https://shaukatkhanum.org.pk/online-donation/

SOS Village Pakistan
http://donation.sos.org.pk/Person/PersonForm

 

5. Help someone set up a business

For sure, you know a needy person. Buy her/him a Sewing machine. Doesn’t cost more than Rs. 4500. Paint it in our Flag’s colour for a plus.

 

6. Adopt some child’s school education fee by donating just Rs.100/- per month! 

Yes! You can do that. NUST Community Service Club’s Al-Qalam Program currently has 101 children studying in schools. You can also adopt a child by donating Rs. 100/- per month ONLY!!

Here’s all you need to know about it:
https://www.facebook.com/AlQalamProgram/

 

7. Motivate someone else to do the same
   No matter if it is just through social media or talking to your best friend, but do it yourself first!

 

Fem-Power – the Return

A subset of roughly 51% of the population is occupied by brave, unsung heroes for whom each day is a battle-Females. You and I are part of this battle just as much as anyone else, as defenders, offenders or as by-standers. A discussion of the struggle of widows demands an acknowledgment of a lack of society’s support towards these individuals; the absence of sociological safeguards and the presence of ill-advised remarks, to name a few.

Fem-power, a campaign to fight these odds, after a short period of dormancy, is back with rejuvenated spirits and has been revamped by NCSC. To kick-off our new journey, the 16^th of May, marked an interactive session studded with epitomes of courage and gutsiness at NIT Auditorium, NUST, under the name, “I am Woman, Hear me Roar”.

The speakers included Waliya Najib, a self-proclaimed, autodidact photographer based in Islamabad who proved her mettle swiftly in a couple of years.

The second speaker gracing the occasion was Ghazala Bangash, whose long-drawn-out life experiences simply can’t be put into words by scribblers like me. She pioneered this driving-training half a century ago for girls. She can still recount the same retro-shallowness of minds that is kept, even today towards feminal driving. Her mantra is “Stop whining, start living. Be brave and learn how to drive as I did!”

The third speaker, Shahnaz Kapadia, being our firebrand and literally- the rabble rouser, created the ambience of a true motivational TED talk. She reflected upon the impediments that once were on her way to becoming a multi-million dollar (churner) business-woman. Today, she is content. She is filled with a charismatic stimulus; she is a game-lifter, an expert on gender studies, still against all odds faced by a woman entrepreneur in our society. And yes, she effortlessly tackled the somehow-knotty questions afterwards during a ‘Questions & Answers’ session.

The once buoyed up house met some goose bumps when a slight mention of her son’s death during the Kashmir earthquake was made. After successfully returning from the gloom’s abyss, today Ms. Kapadia is a running fount of valor, for men and women alike.

The question is, should we settle with the current norms of society? Is shoving widows, the underprivileged women, to nooks of condescension justified? At what point do society’s remarks turn to due laudation? Surely, someone needs to lay the foundations of some sort of panel intent on fighting this injustice.

We, team FEMPOWER, aim to help women, especially forlorn widows surviving without bread-winners, in the suburbs of Islamabad presently, and appeal for the identification of deserving cases.

Our fight is against the scathing legacy left behind by yesterday’s society, plagued by sexist and scornful traditions targeted towards these unfortunate souls.  Our mission is to extricate the lives of women who want to support their destitute families on their own, as these are individuals easily foraged upon by societal misogyny.

 

Footy Mania 2017- A Huge Success!

What is the perception of futsal in your mind? Played by kids? Requires less stamina? Less effort than soccer? Well, that may prove wrong once you have experienced Footy Mania for yourself. Renowned for its nail biting matches and seamless execution each year, Footy Mania requires all of one’s strength, focus and presence of mind to take home the trophy.

The fourth annual Footy Mania, based on league format, was organized from 12^th-14^th April. Teams from different institutes and renowned football clubs competed to give their hundred percent on the field, to become the champion of the best futsal event of the twin cities. Kicking off one cloudy evening at the lively C-1 Complex, the limelight of the Footy Mania attracted a handsome crowd of football lovers. The very first game signaled off the rest of the teams about the level of competition that this tournament had to offer. Along with the stalls from food sponsors, the lively music added to the energy of the ground.

As Footy Mania 17’ inched further, the matches got even more interesting and tough, as well as intriguing for the spectators, thus pulling off more of the crowd. On the last day, most of the matches went into penalty stages, and the final decisions were made even after several penalties. Though everyone tried hard and competed well, only Gucci FC and Highlanders were the ones who made it to the final. The final was itself a treat to watch. At the end of the 30 minute play, the score was 3 each, thus going off for penalties where Gucci FC came strong to win the final and proclaim itself the champion of the Biggest Futsal Event of Twin Cities.

The Grand Finale was preceded by the awards ceremony, graced by the presence of DD Admin NUST, DD Hostels, DD C & M NUST. The winning team were awarded Rs. 25,000/- while the runner up was awarded with Rs. 10,000/-. Murtaza from Highlanders got the High Scorer Nike Shoes. Ground Staff and Referees were given tokens of appreciation. Generated Profit from the event was donated to the Endowment Fund, which sponsors College education of Needy students at NUST.

From arranging anticipated matches to making sure that everything was on schedule and being there from 3 in the afternoon to 2 in the night, all had been managed by the 3 Event Heads, Muhammad Uzair Sajjad, Abdullah Anwar and Muhammad Nauman Saeed working in collaboration with the entire Organizing Committee of Footy Mania 17’.

The Art of Selflessness

“The Art of Selflessness” by one of our highly esteemed writers, Ishaq Ibrahim :

” If your love is only a will to possess, it is not love.”     
– Thich Nhat Hanh, Zen Buddhist

The idea of selflessness is not a contemporary one. It has existed ever since mankind has and persisted to this day. Simply put, selflessness is to be concerned about someone else’s needs or wishes rather than one’s own.

There is no dearth of stories that we get to listen to from various sources that highlight the virtues and the nobility of being selfless. We have many examples around us, of people who have spent their lives for the service of humanity, and it is from them that we can draw motivation and wisdom.

We take pride in the fact that a man named Abdul Sattar Edhi lived in Pakistan. Edhi, over the span of several decades, set up the Edhi foundation and the Bilquis Edhi Trust (named after his wife) under which runs an approximately 1500 vehicle-strong ambulance network, ready to show up at your doorstep in an instant. The Edhi foundation has rescued around 20,000 abandoned infants, rehabilitated over 50,000 orphans and trained over 40,000 nurses. The numbers are staggering, and the list is endless. What is the one thing that drove Edhi to achieve all of this? To live an incredibly humble life despite being at the helm of this massive humanitarian organization?

Selflessness. The unconditional love for humanity.

It feels almost impossible for such a feat to have been accomplished. To do something even remotely similar to what Edhi did looks like a distant dream. Yet, we fail to realize that Edhi did not start out like this. More than five decades ago, when Karachi was plagued with an Asian flu epidemic, Edhi made the most crucial decision of his life: he decided to be selfess. In his own words:

“I saw people lying on the pavement … The flu had spread in Karachi, and there was no one to treat them. So I set up benches and got medical students to volunteer. I was penniless and begged for donations on the street. And people gave. I bought this 8-by-8 room to start my work.”

The one piece of wisdom that we can extract from Edhi’s life is that it takes just one human being, full of selfless love for his fellows, to make a critical difference. Equipped with this basic quality, every one of us can make that difference in the life of even a single person, if not thousands: a friend, a relative, or even a total stranger.

Happy helping!

One Step Closer to their Dream!

On 3^rd April, the sun didn’t rise alone. It rose with many young aspirations, of participants from different schools and colleges who had been invited to a one-of-a-kind event at NUST. They were about to get the ultimate taste of a day in the life of a NUSTian.

Students from Westminster, BMI, Torcia Academy and IMCB arrived at the glorious campus of the National University of Sciences and Technology; a step towards the university of their dreams. The diligent organising committee had been working months before the event to ensure everything ran smoothly. Finally, their hard work was about to pay off.

Students started pouring in the SMME Seminar Hall. Following the recitation of the Holy Quran, there was a motivational talk by Darashik Abbas, inspiring the audience to explore their passion and build a career around it. Next, Syed Basir Raza, walked them through the tips and tricks for acing the NET. Lastly, Khurram Javed informed them about the dynamics of life at NUST.

The students were offered refreshments, after which they made their way to the first ever ‘Schools Fair’ at NUST. They voiced their concerns, inquired about the degree programs they were aiming for and availed this excellent opportunity to hear the inside story from the representatives of the schools at NUST.

Soon after, the students assembled into the groups that had been assigned to them in accordance with the preferences asked at the time of registration. One group visited SMME, NICE and SEECS. Another one opted for SMME, SCME and SEECS. The third went to NBS, S3H and TICS. They visited the major labs and workshops in each of these institutions. They also toured around the many schools, cafes, hostels and other significant buildings at NUST.  Everyone was awestruck with the campus grandeur and many expressed their wish to walk those paths, one day.

To mark the end of a long, productive day, students made their way to the Headquarters of NUST. Here, groups posed for pictures and claimed that the day was a giant success. As the sun set, spirits were renewed and firm resolves to do better, rose higher. Many a soul fell asleep with tired legs, but starry eyes to dream of a day when they would enter the gates of NUST, and call it home.

With that, NUST Community Services Club would like to commend the tireless efforts of Umer Sadiq, Ahmed Yar and Humna Bilal and congratulate them on the execution of a very successful, Experience NUST 2017!

Footy Mania Fever!

Pounding hearts, echoing in the field. Pools of sweat, accompanying anxious faces. The tension breaks. Suddenly, screams fill the arena. The crowd bursts with cheers and applause. GOAL!

Fellow football enthusiasts, did you take a moment to let a glimpse of the field engulf you? Did you inhale deeply? Did you get goosebumps? Get ready for an electric atmosphere, because NUST Community Services Club is coming back with the biggest Futsal event of the twin cities! Yes, NUST Footy Mania 2017 is on its way!

But first, let’s take a moment to recap Footy Mania 2016!

Last year, 32 teams participated with players going head to head, and most games ending at a final score of 1-0. The air was thick with a passion for the game. An excellent performance was shown by all the teams, but alas, where there is a game, there must be a winner. In the end, it boiled down to an intense match between Saints FC and Highlanders FC. A brilliant display of teamwork caused Saints FC to emerge victorious!

This year, the game will be revived from 3^rd to 5^th April, with teams from institutions across Pakistan.  Footy Mania 2017 has had to face several delays due to a delicate security situation, but that has not deterred the enthusiasm of the dedicated organising committee. In fact, it has served as an opportunity for them to raise the standard, keep the vigour alive and making it even more exciting! What’s more, the winning team will go home with cash prizes, but the rest of the funds will make it to the NUST Endowment Fund!

With that, NUST Community Services cordially invites you to bring forth your A-game for the tournament! Whether you are coming as a player, or coming to fill the stands, we have a little something for all of you! Fetch your caps, paint your faces with the colours of your favourite team, rest those vocal chords and keep your eye on the ball. Get ready for the match of a lifetime!

Eye Camp – Eye, Eye Captain!

Each of us takes for granted the impact of vision. Stop and ask yourself: How powerful a role does vision play in our lives? Let’s try describing a red rose in words: The gentle hues of red intertwine to form the ever vibrant petals – each with a hint of maroon, perhaps even orange. Each petal is a world of colors in itself- with alternating shades of the same color creeping across its rich surface. Do you think we’ve done justice to the rose? Of course not – an accurate description of what we see falls short of ANY amount of words. THAT is the impact of vision!

Realizing the importance of sight, NUST Community Services Club (NCSC) organized a two-day Eye Camp on 14-15^th March, 2017 at NUST Medical Center in collaboration with Al-Shifa Eye Trust Hospital. On the first day alone, an astounding 600 registrations were recorded. People came in huge numbers for their eye checkup and free eye drops as well as glasses were provided at the spot to them. On-spot requisitions and prescriptions were also handed out. A total of 1403 patients were treated, from which around 350 were given free glasses, while many were given free medicines.

Sadly, most of us want to have everything but don’t want to give anything in return.  If we want to become a great nation, we have to inculcate three things within ourselves; be selfless, preach selflessness and teach selflessness. So let’s come together to aspire to be better today than we were yesterday and appreciate the gift of sight!

BDD 2017 – Record-breaking 306 pints collected!

The NUST Medical Center is the place at one of the many edges of NUST, where you go to get yourself checked if you aren’t well. So, obviously, the crowd milling around the Medical Center was a clear sign that either someone with a lot of friends had taken ill, or many people had been involved in an accident and had to be taken to the Medical Center. Fortunately, it was neither of those scenarios, but rather, all those students were there for one of the noblest causes of all, donating their blood.

As one of NCSC’s signature events, the Blood Donation Drive in collaboration with the Jamila Sultana Foundation is held every year in the Spring Semester. It provides the students of NUST, the opportunity to donate their blood to patients of thalassemia. Thalassemia is a genetic disease, and since it has no cure, its patients need regular, monthly blood transfusions for their continued survival. The Jamila Sultana Foundation provides these transfusions to the poor and the deserving completely free of cost – a worthy endeavor in itself.

The Blood Donation Drive for Spring 2017 was a three-day event, held from March 7^th to March 9^th. This drive too, was going to go almost the same way as the previous ones – except that it didn’t. Preparations were made for setting up a tent at the IGIS ground, but unexpected rain forced the relocation of the venue to Medical Center on the very first day. The unprecedented change of venue, from a place easily reachable and visible, like the IGIS Ground, to a place far away and very much of out of sight, had its effect. Though transportation was set up, from C1, C2, as well as the departments for anyone who wanted to donate, only 168 pints were collected over the course of the first two days.

It could have been a setback, if not for the untiring efforts of event heads, organizing committee and the NCSC council members who not only donated blood themselves, but also persuaded friends and total strangers alike, to donate their blood as well. The third and final day of the BDD, was phenomenal. The Drive continued well after 5 p.m., the usual end-point. Hostelites who hadn’t had a chance to contribute were convinced to come forward and donate. The result of these efforts was evident in the fact that the Blood Donation Drive was the most successful drive ever held by NCSC, breaking all previous records with a total number of 306 pints collected.

While 306 might not be a big number on its own, considering the jam-packed schedule of NUST students, the unexpected change of venue and location of the Medical Center, 306 is a ground-breaking achievement. Our hope is that future Blood Donation Drives will not only reach this number but surpass it as well, for what’s a little competition in the worthiest cause of all, saving lives.

Orphans Know More – 3rd time’s the charm!

Meet team OKM!

A group of 28 ambitious philanthropists reached Aghosh Orphanage this Saturday, 25^th February 2017. After the group of volunteers broke the ice with the little ones there, they kicked off with the main agenda of the visit. The scheduled activities were from two categories; one from a somehow ignored yet crucial one i.e Depiction of Cultural Diversity and the other activities were related to Science and its wonders. During the first phase of the activities, the children were divided into two groups; one group including the younger kids and the other the older ones. The activities were planned in such a way that they befitted the particular age group and their intellect level. The younger lot was taught the concept of density while the older group was shown a video on stars by Waleed to help them understand the concept better.

Under the second category, the kids were handed out printouts of Pakistan’s map and they were supposed to colour all provinces differently following a key. Next, Yousaf Shahid, explained the use and reading method of a key to a map. He emphasized on the significance of different symbols, the boundaries of different provinces, the trail of rivers and what it symbolises.

Following these activities, a small skit was performed by the kids that was written and directed by Ayesha Bilal and Afsah Hassaan. The skit aimed at teaching the kids a lesson regarding unity amongst people belonging to different cultures and diverse backgrounds. The skit started with a scene showing several passengers in a bus depicted by chairs arranged in rows; where nobody wanted to sit beside a person of different ethnicity from their own. In no time, they met an unfortunate accident; in the aftermath of which everyone helped each other irrespective of their different ethnic background. The moral of this skit was that we are all Pakistanis before being Balochi, Sindhi, Punjabi or anything else. Once the kids were done with showcasing their acting skills, they were seated down and were shown a presentation on the diversity of cultures in Pakistan; how people belonging to different backgrounds and areas dress, celebrate, grieve, eat, speak and live in general. The goal of the presentation was to alleviate any sense of racial superiority or inferiority that may be present in the kids, appreciate differences and embrace one’s heritage unapologetically.

Lastly, the team said their goodbyes to the kids with a promise of visiting in a matter of no more than two weeks.

 

Health Comes With Hygiene

Imagine a relationship of two best friends; one can’t thrive without the other. They go through life, hand-in-hand. If you are not on good terms with one, the other wouldn’t talk to you either. If you take care of one, the other would be more than willing to be of service to you.

Health and Hygiene are two such best friends. Interdependent, co-existent and always interconnected.

For a person, or simply a being, to live a fulfilling life; health is of utmost importance. You may have the entire world’s possessions in your grasp but if you are not sound in health, you can never enjoy all what the world has to offer. Health remains the chief source of peace and happiness. With it, you can find joy even in the most mundane events. Without it, lavish celebrations, great food and good company seem listless, tasteless and flushed out of colours.

“It is health that is real wealth and not pieces of gold and silver.”
– Mahatma Gandhi

 

Health basically means the state of a sound mind, and body that are free of any disorder or ailment that hinders normal body works, state-of-mind, performance, psychology and development. In short, health is your physical and emotional wellbeing.

And to be friends with health, you need to shake hands with hygiene; the regular practices that keep ailments at bay and ensure health and wellbeing.

Hygienic practices vary from individual acts to actions taken at community levels to ensure, improve and sustain sound health of every individual that is a part of the community.

From proper sanitation practices like using toilets, washing hands with soap, consuming clean drinking water, covering eatables to prevent spread of disease, and personal cleanliness, hygiene expands to a broader level at the community stage with focus on proper sewage and garbage disposal, supply of safe drinking water and fresh food items.

As an individual, we could start to achieve sound health and ensure it for others by adopting hygiene practises, and mobilizing people around us to do the same.

If done with dedication, and with engaging more and more people we come across, a healthy community can be built that has all the mental and physical ability to work and play a part in making this world a better place to live in.

 

Orphans kNOw More-one step closer.

If you yearn to learn and teach, Orphans Know More (OKM) is the best place to start. OKM’s legacy continued as the core team, comprising 5 event heads and 26 participants, visited Aghosh Orphanage on 7^th January, 2017.

54 little ones lined the balcony facing the main road in anticipation of their guests. There were a great number of activities planned by OKM’s enthusiastic team this time. The day kicked off with an energetic jive, serving as a warm-up session of sorts. Next, the kids were divided into 4 groups according to their age group; 2 groups for the elder lot and 2 for the younger of the bunch. Each of the different activities were catered for the different age groups. A galactic presentation, featuring images of our majestic solar system, enticed the more grown-up children. What quickly followed was a session where the children were encouraged to come forward to tell audience what they had learned from the presentation; an attempt at pushing the kids out of their comfort zone and helping them get over the fear of speaking to large audiences. For the younger ones, there was a demonstration on the transfer of germs, highlighting the importance of personal hygiene in hopes that it would increase their chances at being protected from various common diseases.

Next in line was an activity concerned with a New Year’s resolution. The little ones were encouraged to come up with practical goals that they wanted to achieve during the year 2017, teaching them the importance of self-improvement. The children’s New Year’s resolutions were colorfully recorded on vibrant chart papers, and displayed in their bedrooms to serve as a reminder. All that thinking sure did make the kids’ bellies rumble! Fortunately, the team was already prepared for that in advance, as they distributed cookies amongst the children. The productive day came to an end with a cake cutting ceremony in celebration of the year 2017, followed by a gift distribution by Ideas foundation

It might take one of your week days but believe me, it will take away all your stress with you. Seeing those smiling faces is worth a million.

Smile for a While (2016)

It was about 4:00 pm on 24^th December, 2016; the typical wintered Islamabad turned chilly as the sun set in the horizon, allowing other elements of nature to take over. Just as the horizon was about to fade to black, however, the lights being lit at the SOS Children Village overpowered this darkness.

Bright kids in micro fashion gave a hard competition to the well-dressed seniors present on the scene. They out-showed their gratitude by showering the guests with flowers. The event started with the soothing recitation of the Holy Quran, followed by the National Anthem.

As the winds got colder, the atmosphere at SOS village got hotter. Next to follow was the cultural walk; the most endearing performance of the evening featuring kids with beautiful dresses and heart-warming smiles. From the Chitrali topi to the Sindhi Ajrak, snippets from all cultures were featured in this heavenly performance. As we moved on through the evening, time constraints seemed to be of little significance.

Talha Azhar from Ideas Foundation graced the stage with his presence and praised the efforts of the volunteers and collaborators in making this event a possibility; he also paid his gratitude to the Islamabad Police for providing security. A cascade of performances -beat boxing, drama, songs and cultural dances – continued throughout the event.

IG Islamabad also graced the occasion, lauding the hard work and effort put into organizing such an event.  At around half-past seven, piping-hot food and other refreshments were served, ready to feed the appetites of the attendees. Marking the end of a great evening, bursts of vibrant colors – fireworks – illuminated the night sky.

500+ attendees
10+ performances
100+ performing kids
1 Memorable Night

 

Blindfolded Wall Climbing

The morning sun shone bright and clear upon the participants clustered together around the wall climbing segment of the Ibex Club, Lakeview Park. They gathered together with a sense of anticipation, and eagerly awaited the beginning of the event. Among them were ten members of the Pakistan Paraclimbing Club, visually impaired individuals who would be climbing alongside the students in a true show of determination and spirit. Students could either choose to climb with a blindfold on, and be immersed in the experience the event was originally designed to bring to them. Or, they could choose to forgo it entirely, and climb with their sight unhindered, just for the sake of climbing.

The formal championship commenced with each participant being allowed to climb the wall once, blindfolded or without it, as per their preference. The time taken by each participant to reach the top of the wall was measured using stopwatches and noted down. Times were compared and the top ten participants were called upon to climb again. Both members of the Paraclimbing Club and students were among them. The second time around though, only the top three were chosen according to the fastest times, and they were all visually impaired individuals.

The Chief Guest, Managing Director of Ibex Club, Esam Khattak said a few words in the closing ceremony. This was followed by addresses from the President of NCSC, Qasim Naveed, and Suleman Arshad of Pakistan Paraclimbing Club. The prizes were then presented to the winners. The results of the Blindfolded Wall Climbing Championship only confirmed what the event was all about. It is the motivation and determination to succeed, and the belief in one’s own abilities that makes the winning spirit become a true victory, not the presence or absence of other things however important they may seem, like the senses themselves.

If only we all can grasp the essence of what this event displayed – confidence, and resilience in the face of such overwhelming challenges and difficulties does bring success – and apply that to life around us, we can take on the world. We can take on the world, with the same determination, motivation and grit, that these visually impaired people had when they faced the wall, blind, and with no sight, but with plenty of vision.

The event could not have been made possible without the generous contributions of Red Bull, Red Sun Associates, Ibex Club and Pakistan Paraclimbing Club. We are grateful for their assistance in making this event a success.

 

One Step Towards a Drug Free Society

20^th December, 2016 was the day, NIT Seminar Hall was alive with the noise of many conversations. An anti narcotics seminar was being arranged by Center of Counseling and Career Advisory(C3A) in collaboration with Anti Narcotics Force(ANF) and assistance of NUST Community Services Club(NCSC).

Gist: Happiness comes with Family Life and Patience ‘Not Drugs’

To start off, Director C3A talked about mental health and how drugs are affecting it.  This was followed by an informative and interactive session by Mr. Jibran Ahmad Yusufzai. He stressed upon the steps being taken by ANF in reducing the culture of Drug addiction and trafficking. Drugs of more than 0.88 Billion US Dollars worth have been disposed off this year by ANF.  Anti Narcotics force has set up 3 Rehabilitation Centers in Pakistan to get the addicts back to life in a normal way.

DG ANF in a key ending note emphasized on the lack of awareness in youth about the consequences of drug use.  Drugs as stress managers are widely used in Pakistan. Stress should be countered with proper guidance from society. In countries like Pakistan, discussing drugs is considered as Taboo. They are not discussed properly in our family gatherings. Additionally, an addict can never be a good leader, because his addiction will affect the decisions that may not be in the best interests of society.

While we signed off, the dream to a drug free society was in mind of every student because a Drug Free Society leads to a stronger Pakistan, morally and ethically.

 

 

 

Return to Aghosh Orphanage

17^th December, 2016, marked the day when 14 exuberant NCSC members set off to visit the tiny humans over at Aghosh Orphanage, Rawalpindi, after a complete year. Bursting with high spirits, all the members assembled at SEECS parking in the morning, and were on their way to the orphanage by 10 a.m.

We arrived at the orphanage at about 11 a.m. Our arrival was greeted by cute, adorable children. They all eagerly looked to see who had come to their abode. As we proceeded into the orphanage, we were welcomed by their beaming faces.

We started off by gathering all the children on the roof-top and then conducted an ice-breaking session to get familiar with the children. Later, we divided them into groups according to their age and proceeded to engage the children in entertaining activities. They were eager to play games, to answer questions; they all wanted to be carried and played with, and given special attention to.

There was a two minute story session on morals for children, followed by other activities like recognizing shapes and identifying colors. After that we assembled all the students and performed jives i.e. a lively dance to get everyone’s blood flowing.

The children seemed to enjoy every bit of these moments and their soft giggles echoed through the enclosure. They were ecstatic but it made one wonder how much trial and suffering they hid behind this facade of happiness. I held, loved, kissed and laughed with them. Those few hours felt like a life time. This is what they wanted – each one of those children clamoring for attention – just an ounce of love.

As we left the orphanage, a thousand thoughts played in my head and a thousand words that I wanted to burst out of my mouth. With a heavy heart, we said our good-byes and left.

As John Wesley once said, “Do all the good you can, by all the means you can,  in all places you can, at all times you can, to all people you can, as long as ever you can.”

SOS Cricket Challenge

The Sun had not yet risen up to the horizon when a group of children aged between ten and nineteen, belonging to the SOS Village gathered in the ground next to the School Of Chemical and Materials Engineering (SCME), welcomed by students from NUST.

Purpose? To play cricket.

The SOS Cricket Challenge was organized by the NUST Community Services Club on Saturday, December 10, 2016. The event started out with a match played between the SOS Village children. A sense of competition wafted through the cool air as both sides tried to outplay and defeat one another. The match ended with refreshments being served to the players.

As the Sun rose to its highest position in the sky, so did the stakes. The SOS children were now going to take on the NUST students. This was a matter of SOS being up against NUST. And so the match started.

SOS began its innings with a smooth batting spell culminating in a target of seventy-one. Soon after, the NUST team began its chase, effortlessly edging closer and closer to the target, only to be stopped dead in its tracks by the SOS bowlers, when three of its proficient batsmen were taken out. The match ended with SOS emerging as the victors.

After the match, the tension in the atmosphere was diffused away as the guests began introducing themselves and interacting with the SOS children. An arm wrestling challenge was also conducted, in which those that lost the cricket matches tried to get rid of their frustration by beating their opponents.

The event ended with the guests being shown around NUST and its departments.

The children had come to NUST eager to play cricket with these people that were strangers. When they stepped out of its gates, they left with hopes of coming back again with smiles painted across their faces by the same strangers that were now thought of fondly as friends and family.

 

 

 

 

Saving the World, 280 Pints at a Time.

The three-day Blood Donation Drive (BDD) hosted by NUST Community Services Club (NCSC) concluded on Thursday, November 17, at the NUST Medical Centre.

Held in collaboration with the Armed Forces Institute of Transfusion (AFIT), the drive witnessed three successful days of an overwhelming response by the NUST student body as well as faculty, literally going out of their way to visit the medical centre situated in what many call a remote location at the H-12 campus.

With an impressive turnout that concluded with 280 pints of blood collected in three days, the BDD ran everyday from 11 am to 6 pm. A vigilant team of NCSC members and volunteers were designated for various duties to welcome, register, guide and assist the donors visiting the medical center throughout the day.

To help make the commute to the medical center convenient, NCSC ran a transport service from the IGIS ground on an hourly basis, picking up eager donors from their schools and later on dropping the heroes back to their respective institutes. The NCSC social media team and on-campus volunteers diligently worked to spread the word about the event happenings, facilities being provided and updates about the number of donations made.

With a well-trained AFIT staff managing all aspects regarding blood screening, testing, and transfusion; the NCSC blood donation drive received much appreciation by everyone coming in.

Upon being asked about the BDD and their motivation behind donating blood to help save lives, the donors had quite interesting views to share:

“I  always wanted to serve the community somehow, so this can be called a start to my community service,” says first-timer Hamza, a student from NUST Business School.

On taking starts, another NBS student Umer Farooq, termed his blood donation as a beginning to live for serving others while an aspiring mechanical engineer, Mawahid, shared his own set of reasons behind the will to donate, “I have some family members who are regular blood donors, so I know it’s a practice that helps save lives while benefiting one’s own health.”

“Knowing the fact that a single blood pint can save up to three lives also pushed me to donate. If it’s so easy to save three lives, why not?,” he adds.

The more donors we talked to, the more we realised how beautifully philanthropic and selfless their motivations were; “Why donate?”, when asked from Ahmed Alam of NUST School of Mechanical & Manufacturing Engineering (SMME), he put it simply, “because I could be the answer to someone’s prayers”.

“ It’s just one small bottle of blood, it’s not even asking that much,” says Faizan Rashid, another humble donor from SMME.

When asked what one phrase would define their feelings, the self-satisfaction of having contributed to a noble cause was an emotion expressed by many.

“I might be a messiah for someone in dire need of blood one day,” says Sheikh Rehan from SMME.

“ I feel like a super hero, says Abdul Aziz, a civil engineering student at NUST Institute of Civil Engineering (NICE).

From carrying out campaigns against misconceptions on blood donation to setting up donation camps at a more central location for a higher turnout; the donors, volunteers, faculty and team members were all very helpful in recommending better strategies.

The three-day BDD gave many of us a chance to contribute a little something for the community. The donors gave blood, the organizers their sweat while tears of joy were shed mutually for having completed such a noble feat.

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NCSC Welcomes the Council of 2016

The hall was abuzz with the noise of many conversations. Rather than being the discordant sound of chaos, it was more a din of voices all combining and overlapping in the background – a testament to the strength of NUST’s largest student-run society, NUST Community Services Club.

Community service is driven by the heart and soul, as much as it is orchestrated by the mind. But any effort to alleviate the common man’s woes, cannot be a success unless the people involved ensure a smooth running of affairs. For this purpose, the new recruits were provided an insight into the inner workings of the society, along with the introduction of the Office Bearers. The Faculty Supervisor,Dr. Safdar, had a few words to say to the students, encouraging them to reach out, explore and extend the limits of their abilities. Perhaps this was put into focus best, by Suleman Arshad, an inspirational figure who recounted how upon diagnosis with a condition that turned him blind, he had to go to a special needs school – where he met some of the most optimistic and cheerful people he had ever come across. This encouraged him to set out on his own journey of beating the odds, and led him to where he is today – a pursuer of adventure sports, and organizer of such activities for other disabled people – an inspiration to one and all!

The President of NCSC, Qasim Naveed also addressed the council, and shared his own experiences that influenced him to be a part of a society focused solely on giving back to the community, and helping the underprivileged. A special oath taking ceremony was held, where the new recruits swore to fulfill their duties to the best of their abilities. They were then led outside the department in their teams and a series of ice-breaking activities were held to get them introduced and accustomed to everyone else. Another motivational speaker, Xalaar Maya then held a lengthy session which included team building exercises, which were both, a lesson in team dynamics for the participants, and a source of amusement for the observers.

Once the official segment was over, the entertainment took over and continued for the rest of the entire evening, conveniently filling in the time it took for the refreshments to reach the venue. As the orientation finally drew to an end, the council members left tired, but in high spirits, and with the unmistakable feeling that great things are just around the corner.

NCSC Orientation 2016

The hall was abuzz with the noise of many conversations. Rather than being the discordant sound of chaos, it was more a din of voices all combining and overlapping in the background – a testament to the strength of NUST’s largest student-run society, NUST Community Services Club.

Community service is driven by the heart and soul, as much as it is orchestrated by the mind. But any effort to alleviate the common man’s woes, cannot be a success unless the people involved ensure a smooth running of affairs. For this purpose, the new recruits were provided an insight into the inner workings of the society, along with the introduction of the Office Bearers. The Faculty Supervisor, Dr. Safdar, had a few words to say to the students, encouraging them to reach out, explore and extend the limits of their abilities. Perhaps this was put into focus best, by Salman, an inspirational figure who recounted how upon diagnosis with a condition that turned him blind, he had to go to a special needs school – where he met some of the most optimistic and cheerful people he had ever come across. This encouraged him to set out on his own journey of beating the odds, and led him to where he is today – a pursuer of adventure sports, and organizer of such activities for other disabled people – an inspiration to one and all!

The President of NCSC, Qasim Naveed, also addressed the council, and shared his own experiences which influenced him to be part of a society focused solely on giving back to the community, and helping the underprivileged. A special oath taking ceremony was held, where the new recruits swore to fulfill their duties to the best of their abilities. They were then led outside the department in their teams and a series of ice-breaking activities were held to get them introduced and accustomed to everyone else. Another motivational speaker, Xalaar Maya then held a lengthy session which included team building exercises, which were both, a lesson in team dynamics for the participants, and a source of amusement for the observers.

Once the official segment was over, the entertainment took over and continued for the rest of the entire evening, conveniently filling in the time it took for the refreshments to reach the venue. As the orientation finally drew to an end, the council members left tired, but in high spirits, and with the unmistakable feeling that great things are just around the corner.

Youth Mobilization campaign-Visit to NUST of students from different universities of Balochistan.

On Thursday, 29^th September, a heartfelt attempt at bridging the gap between the Capital and Balochistan was made as a group of students from the south were invited to NUST. The participants, including 176 delegates from Balochistan, added diversity to the audience and lined the seats inside Jinnah Auditorium. This was surely a rare, colourful sight to see. What soon followed was an informational video about the many disciplines offered at the various departments, aimed at familiarising our guests with NUST.

With rejuvenated spirits, the audience was then graced with the presence of the chief guests of the afternoon; Jam Kamal Khan (Chief Minister; Federal Minister of Oil & Gas), Siraj Ahmed (Representative from southern command), Dr. Zareef (Deputy secretary to CM Balochistan) and Salma Muhammad Hassani (CEO Devotee Balochistan). The chief guests were accompanied by the honourable Rector NUST.

The guest students belonging to a total of 7 universities in Balochistan had a lot of questions and did not beat around the bush long for answers. Sitting in the Centre of International Peace & Stability (CIPS), the very first question raised by the guest participants was one inquiring about what steps NUST has taken towards maintaining peace and promoting the influx of students from areas most affected by terrorism, namely KPK and Balochistan; the name of the location they were sitting in, was also referenced, as part of their question.

Composed as ever, Rector NUST did not hesitate for a moment to answer this very important question. The audience was informed about the many efforts made by NUST to disseminate knowledge to Balochistan. These included the Outreach program, NUST offering to train faculty members from Balochistan to facilitate the learning of the students there, funding ICT labs in Balochistan and even offering to pay the salaries for non-government faculty members. The answer ended with the conclusion that this was more of a provincial problem. Rector NUST also spoke about how fond he was of our Balochi brethren, owing to his time spent there earlier.

He continued to highlight two very important objectives for all undergraduates in NUST, namely Entrepreneurship (business) and Community Service. He also talked about how one of our priorities here at the university is to facilitate underprivileged students; students whose parents’ salaries are below Rs.80,000 per month comprise 55-60% of the entire student body at the university, benefiting from the need based scholarships offered here. He welcomed all students belonging to Balochistan, whether privileged or not, provided they have the qualifications and offered to facilitate them despite their circumstances.

Another chain of questions followed, some even dwelling on the brink of politics. A tone of respect and decency, however, was always maintained by those who posed the questions as well as by those who answered them. The interactive session ended with a gracious exchange of shields between the Rector and the Guests of Honour. After a very refreshing lunch, the guest students were then escorted on a tour around campus and were oriented with some departments, namely SMME, SEECS and NICE.

The Pakistani nation is one which is unique in its ethnic diversity and culture. This event was a commendable effort to address the issues faced by those who enjoy less mainstream media attention. Such efforts must also continue in the near future to clear misunderstandings, misconceptions and unite us all as one people.

Abdul Sattar Edhi: 1928- Forever

Image via http://www.newsmedialive.com

08-07-2016- The day when the country was yet again shaken by a great loss as Mr. Faisal Edhi announced the death of his father, Mr.Abdul Sattar Edhi, the country’s most respected philanthropist.

The nation went into immediate mourning and social media lit up with heartfelt tributes to the man who changed lives of thousands.

But who was Edhi? He was known by many names; Angel of mercy, the living saint, Maulana Edhi, Father Terrassa and so on, yet he liked to call himself Pakistan.

‘I am Pakistan’ he would say with a broad, kind smile. As someone on social media said after his death, ‘When asked about the best things in Pakistan, Edhi’s name was among the first things that springs to one’s mind.’ He was indeed right.

During his lifetime, Mr. Edhi was awarded the Gandhi peace award, the 2007 UNESCO Madanjeet Singh prize, the 2011 London peace award, the Peace Prize from the former USSR for services in the Armenian earthquake disaster in 1988 as well as  Domestic honors such as Nishan-i-Imtiaz (1989) and several others. He was repeatedly nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize.

But honors held little interest for him, instead what mattered to him was

Member of a Gujrati family that participated in the 1947 migration to Pakistan, Mr. Edhi soon discarded the title of refugee and instead decided to undertake philanthropy after witnessing the state’s inability to care for his ill mother.

But he was very ambitious for his time, since he had meagre resources, little education and no money. Yet determination takes one far enough as Mr. Edhi proved. He began from learning to drive an ambulance and transporting people to and from hospitals. Soon he owned a chain of ambulances. He opened his first clinic in 1951 and the Edhi Foundation grew explosively to be the country’s largest welfare organization, running schools, hospitals, morgues and ambulance services across the country, filling up cracks in services which the state failed to provide.

‘I saw people lying on the pavement,’ Edhi said in a 2009 interview with NPR, recalling how he started his first clinic. “The flu had spread in Karachi, and there was no one to treat them. So I set up benches and got medical students to volunteer. I was penniless and begged for donations on the street and people gave. I bought this 8-by-8 room to start my work.”

Since then, Mr. Edhi and his wife Bilquis, whom he married in 1965, built the country’s biggest humanitarian force, based in Karachi, the metropolitan city, which is home to over 20 million people. Their ambulances rush to the scenes of violence and terror. They have placed over 20,000 children for adoption. They wash and bury the city’s unknown dead. They constructed a charitable empire out of nothing, which is operational all over the country yet 48 years later, an ambulance was the only vehicle Mr.Edhi had ever driven.

But what set him apart from every other philanthropist was his kind soul that keenly felt the pain of others. Mr. Edhi worked for humanity as sincerely as one possibly could. He would often be heard saying ‘There is no greater religion in the world than humanity’ and that’s what he acted upon; everyone was welcomed to his centers; no questions asked, no formalities needed, religious or racial differences disregarded. Each day some helpless women would find shelter in Edhi centers, elders found new homes in Edhi homes and abandoned children would discover new families. His centers held cribs with signs that asked parents to simply lay their child in the crib and walk away instead of killing them. Thousands owe their lives to Edhi due to his direct interventions.

But his indirect interventions impacted hundreds of lives as well. It was he who filed a petition, for example, that children with unknown biological parentage should be able to apply for national identity cards, which was eventually settled in the petitioner’s favor.

His dedication to his work soon gained him recognition and soon enough his name now commanded respect. Gangs fighting in Lyari would cease fire to allow his ambulances to collect bodies. In a country, where people enjoy soiling each other’s reputation, Mr. Edhi’s character remained untarnished. He avoided controversy and remained focused on his mission. His call for aid would result in millions donated, yet he was known for his humble lifestyle – he reportedly owned just two sets of clothes and called a small, windowless and sparsely-furnished room next to the office of his foundation, his home. He never sought fame, power, glory or wealth. He epitomized simplicity, implemented equality like none other and practiced tolerance like few could. He lived as if he was sent down simply to serve others.

As Sami Shah writes in DAWN, ‘People don’t remain uncorrupted their entire lives. Politics gives them promises of power, wealth gives them a lust for luxury, and religion gives them the narcissistic egotism of a messiah. But Edhi’.

Edhi was Pakistan’s exception. In a country split into races and ethnic wars on rise, where authority is the only way to make sure your voice is heard, where you need to be either religious or political to make a difference, Mr. Edhi was an exception. He was kind and selfless and brave. Indeed an exception to us all.

Eventually his work took its toll on him and in 2013 he was diagnosed with kidney failure. In June he turned down an offer from former president Asif Ali Zardari to get treatment abroad, insisting on being seen in a government hospital in Pakistan, because he always disliked the VIP culture.   

During the late hours of 8th of July 2016, the angel of mercy departed the world, leaving behind not only those he cared for but an entire nation orphaned.

His final words were ‘take care of the poor of my country.’

After Quaid-e-Azam, Muhammad Ali Jinnah and General Muhammad Zia-ul-Haq, Abdul Sattar Edhi became the third person in Pakistan’s history to receive a gun carriage funeral. This is the highest symbol of respect that the Armed Forces can give to any civilian. His funeral was attended by notable names such as Chief of Army Staff General Raheel Sharif, Sindh Governor Ishratul Ebad, President Mamnoon Hussain and many others .After funeral prayers and a gun salute by the army, Mr Edhi’s body was taken to Edhi village, which he founded 25 years ago, where he was laid to rest.

Mr. Edhi’s success story gives hope to all those striving and fighting to make this country a better place. He inspires the nation that individuals can make a difference without seeking authority. Though the legend has passed on, he leaves behind his legacy.

As the Slate remarks “Edhi was one of those people, as admirable as they are rare, who simply refuse to let the state of the world detract from their mission of making it better.”

Our nation has indeed lost one of its greatest heroes, a symbol of hope for many and the very personification of compassion and empathy. It will take long for that void to fill, for another Edhi to be born but what we can do as individuals is to be part of the change he dreamt of, to promise ourselves that we will take forward the missions he started, to carry on with the legacy that he left behind.

NCSC Eye Camp 2016

One is always better than two and that is why we have two eyes for a better sight, better view and better perspective of what countless blessings of Allah we see every day around us. But things given an extra are often taken for granted by us humans. Whatever that comes without a cost is prone to getting the least attention.

Ever imagined what would it be like to never be able to differentiate between colours properly or not being able to recognize them at all? How heart breaking would it sound to never be able to see your loved ones? Or not being able to cherish the mere existence of a Nutella jar? Unimaginable! If you can do this all and more right now without any aid or help that God for what an impeccable blessing these two eyes are.

Besides all this, there are people among us who are often seen suffering from multiple eye problems and the common most among them is the eyesight defect. While I write this, I am also setting my specs over my nose to look up to the screen properly.

Like every year NUST Community Service Club arranged a two day Eye Camp to facilitate the staff and students of NUST from April 13^th to 14^th, 2016. Eye check-up facilitators were doctors and assisting staff from Shifa International Hospital, whereas the venue was provided by the Medical Centre of NUST. The two day camp did check-up and aided a headcount of 1096 people, both days combined. Day 1 was for the eye check-up of NUST faculty and NG staff whereas day 2 catered mostly the students. Attendees with eye problems or weakness were also given free medicines and a thorough check-up via the advanced eye machines. Those who showed the requirement of getting eye glasses were also given free glasses.

The event was pulled off very well by the volunteers and core team members with surpassing last year’s attendee count of around 700 people. The event proved to be a milestone in itself and a great stepping stone yet again for NCSC towards the betterment and facilitation of the society.

 

 

Footy Mania 2016

NUST Community Service Club (NCSC) holds the prestige of organizing a mega futsal event,”Footy mania” for the third time. The event was held from the 21^st of March to the 24^th of March 2016.After the first two iterations, Footy mania has become the buzz around the town and many football aspirers come to H-12 sector to witness this beautiful game in most exquisite of environments.

There were a total of 32 teams from the twin cities, different universities and clubs and all the players seemed motivated and energized by the buzz of this event. The event kicked off from the evening of 21^st March at NUST futsal grounds. The limelight of the event attracted a genuine crowd of football lovers. The first day became an instant hit as the ground was surrounded by spectators as they witnessed some nail biting finishers and some really big performances from strong futsal teams. There were chattering commentators and some really nice beats from the sound systems to go along with the futsal matches that really lifted up the environment from special to extra special.

As the tournament progressed further, the matches became more intense attracting more crowd. The result of matches become closer and stronger teams faced each other as round of 16 was also started that day. There were refreshments and BBQ stalls for the spectators and even for players to beat the heat and remain cool and calm in order to enjoy the proceedings.

The third day of the tournament proved to be pivotal as it was a holiday in NUST which attracted a lot of people from the university. It was Pakistan day so NCSC organized a patriotic national anthem on the futsal grounds. This gesture approved many audiences as they participated with full zeal and it also gave a right boost to the tournament as well which progressed to quarter-finals as the crowd witnessed some nail biters from the round of 16. Quarter-finals were held after the national anthem and a couple of matches went right down to the wire as the result was decided by penalty shootouts.

The final day was much anticipated as it clearly portrayed the climax of the event. People expected some upsets, some close finishers coupled with some nail biters and people certainly got what they wanted. Semifinals were played by the strongest teams of the tournament and they certainly gave their best to progress towards the finals. However, only two teams emerge; Saints FC and the Highlanders FC, the two best teams of the tournament and worthy finalists. The final had its ebb and flow but Saints FC clearly outclassed the Highlanders FC by their teamwork. They won the footy mania tournament by defeating highlanders 3-0.

This amazing competition was preceded by a glorious awards ceremony. The winners got 20000 PKR while the runners up were given 10000. The top goal scorer was given Nike studs. It was an amazing event overall and the event profits were given to NUST endowment program which provides scholarship money to deserving students of NUST.

Experience NUST 2016

Experience NUST was the first of its kind event hosted by NCSC on 21st March, 2016. It aimed at giving high-school students a first-hand experience on how it’s like to be within the walls of NUST as well as to broaden their perceptions about NUST as a prospective university for their future. Above all however, was the fact that Experience NUST gave a chance to prospective students to ask all their questions and to clear any confusions that might have gone unanswered over the phone and on the official page for NUST. The response to the event was overwhelming, with a couple dozen of students showing up at 10 am at gate 1 to begin their tour of the H-12 sector campus. For effective management, the students were divided into 2 groups, A and B. These included students from:

• Punjab College, Blue Area, Islamabad • Islamabad Model College for Boys, G-10/4 •             Scienta Vision College •             Beaconhouse for Girls, Islamabad •             BMI, Islamabad

Bedazzled by the sheer size of the campus and the diversity of various buildings dedicated to different disciplines offered here, the students were escorted to SMME, where the seminar began. It aimed at addressing any ambiguities about the various programs offered and gave the participants an insight into the pattern of the NET and various other admission requirements. Among the seminar hall were 2 distinguished guests, namely Malala Khan, who talked about her experience as part of the UGRAD exchange program and Ahmed, the brains behind the popular NanStop. The seminar was followed by the much awaited trip to the various schools on campus. Experience NUST was a huge success and set a high bar for other events to live up to. It would however, be unfair to end this post without a mention of the political turmoil in the country following Mumtaz Qadri’s hanging and the consequent inconvenience posed to the participants as well as the hosts. Despite the various obstacles faced up to and on the event day itself, including the jamming of phone signals, the NCSC team persevered and was able to overcome these hurdles.

On a conclusive note, it was commendable effort by event head Zubaish Saghir and NCSC Office Bearers to arrange the whole event and there is no doubt that managing such a large number of students was a huge challenge ultimately overcome by them thanks to their dedication and leadership skills. As any event, this one too owes much of its success to the support of the NCSC faculty sponsors as well as the NUST administration.

BDD 3rd Day- This is how it ends.

A total of 105 donors showed up on the third and final day of the 3-day Blood Donation Drive, which took place on the 7^th of April, 2016 and was hosted by NCSC. Although the number of donors fell just a little short of those on the second day, they far exceeded the number of donors who showed up on the first day of the event. What is important to note, however, is that the spirit of NUSTians was not hindered by any measures, but remained as high as ever throughout the 3 day drive. The IGIS ground is where everyone assembled to play their part in helping the community, and it is there that everyone, regardless of gender, class, ethnicity and even religion, for that matter, laid out their arm in hopes of helping their fellow man.

For every milestone covered and each pint of blood donated during the drive, NCSC has the self-motivated, enthusiastic students and faculty of NUST to thank! This drive could not have achieved its success without your help and cooperation. It is hoped that we can keep the same spirits up in future drives, join hands and continue to serve the community as we have done so now.

BDD Day 2 (06.04.16)

The 6^th of April 2016 marked the 2^nd day of the signature Blood Donation Drive event hosted by NCSC. The vigour and zeal of students and faculty from all across NUST remained strong and spirits to help the community remained as high as ever. 190 students, more than double the number of students on the first day, donated on the second day, allowing for the collection of 117 pints. This number represents the statistical success of the 2^nd day.

One thing that was different from the 1^st day, however, was the very welcome change of venue for the drive. The second day’s camp was set up in the IGIS ground, which was a much more ideal and convenient location for many students. As before, enthusiastic students undertook the 3 steps to donate; (1) Register, (2) Get Blood CP done, (3) Proceed to donate (if the doctor on camp approves). The resolution of any issues and smooth running of operations was ensured by the event heads, Mohammad Sarmad Saeed and Aqsa Batool.

 

BDD-Day One (5.4.16)

This semester’s Blood Donation Drive, organized by the NUST Community Services Club in collaboration with the Jamila Sultana Foundation, kicked off today on the 5^th of April at the NUST Medical Centre. The organizing team was eager to get as many blood donors on board as it could and, to that end, it marketed the event with an unprecedented level of enthusiasm and even set up a NUST-wide transport service for prospective life-savers to avail.

The atmosphere in the Medical Centre lobby was a welcoming one, with posters encouraging blood donations covering the registration desk. Students were first greeted at the registration desk by a NCSC executive, a full protocol was followed; a blood sample was analyzed and afterwars, the students were guided to an affable Dr. Javed waiting for them in the men’s ward, who then counseled them on what activities they could or could not undertake after donating blood, with special emphasis on fluid intake. Those who were deemed unfit to donate were given further counseling on their dietary habits. After passing through all of these stages, the donors were served free snacks to energize them before the medical staff seated beside the beds finally asked them to lie down and clench and unclench their fists while they inserted the needle that was to collect enough blood in a bag for three people. The entire process was carried out in a well-lit, air-conditioned and sanitary environment with clean, disposable equipment.

All in all, 86 people came to donate blood throughout the day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., which meant a good 57 pints were collected on the inaugural day of this three-day camp. A great many altruistic students arrived during the lunch break from 1-2 p.m. and after their classes ended at 5 p.m. to contribute to the service to humanity.

 

Orphans kNOw More-Second Visit (06.02.16)

Fulfilling the holy mandate bestowed upon us and with a vision to serve the humanity NCSC’s enthusiastic team visited the Agosh Orphanage for the second time this 6^th February. A small coaster full of visitors-to-be left NUST around 8 am. Some of the faces were new while the rest had been there before. It was an hour long frenzy to our destination. The children at the orphanage greeted the NCSC team with full zeal and showed great ardor. The 49 children at the orphanage were divided in groups of 10 and 4 team members supervised each group for the activities to be held later on. Each team was given a unique name as suggested by the children like ‘Super Afridi’ or ‘Avengers’ etc. The children were at full ease and played different games in circles. A compassionate feeling of bliss was in the air and everyone could savor it.

After a break, diary making activity was held for the children. At first children showed a little interest and ran here and there but later on as the segment preceded everyone could be seen colouring or writing on their exquisitely colourful hand-made diaries with the multi-coloured markers that NCSC team distributed among them. After that, a story telling session was held and children were given a scenario to come up with a story having a sound moral in the end. The idea behind this was to boost the thinking and improvisational skills of children and as expected of them they en-acted on their self made innovative stories with avidity.

Now it was time for the NCSC team to leave while children still insisted on them to stay. To their liking the children were then gifted with chocolates and sweets at the end of visit and the NCSC team left with a promise to come back next week.

 

Orphans kNOw More-First Visit (20.12.15)

The first visit to Aghosh orphanage under the project name and aim ‘Orphans kNOw More’ took place on 20^th of December, Sunday. An enthusiastic team of volunteers was warmly welcomed by Mr.Bilal Saeed, the administrator of Aghosh orphanage, Rawalpindi. He gave everyone a brief introduction of Aghosh and how it became what it is today; it falls under the umbrella of Alkhidmat foundation and has branches all across Pakistan, catering to as many orphans as possible. Under the roof of Aghosh orphanage live 49 little aspiring souls between ages of 5 to 8 years approximately. They children can be traced back to different cultures, command over different languages, as diverse as one could imagine and yet so similar in their child-like manners.

The warden and the administrator, Miss Tahira and Mr. Bilal Saeed respectively allowed our team, after a thorough survey of the building, to finally meet the kids who were on the top floor of the 3 story building, enjoying winter’s prized sunshine, eagerly waiting for us with beaming faces. There was a warm handshake and introduction session between us and the little ones. We then arranged them all into four rows leading to a series of ice breaking and energizer activities. The children were pumped up and full of energy.

After tea break, a singing class was conducted by Qasim Mustafa. The children actively participated in it by singing some beautiful national and territorial songs in accordance with the rhythmic guitar tunes. Afterwards, Sami Gillani sat everybody down and narrated one story after another to the children huddled up around him with expressions of awe, changing to horror and culminating in bliss. Each story had a moral that was explained to the children in the end. After having listened to the stories, we asked the kids to role-play on the stories. The clock struck 2 and the kids went for their afternoon prayers and mess. Last of all, a lecture on ethics was given by Maira Jalil leading to explanation of analysis charts that were to be displayed in the classrooms. The session ended with distribution of multi-flavored candies among all and we left soon afterwards with children still chanting their goodbyes from the window sills.

Orphans kNOw More- A beginning

Ever seen a couple of kids take part in a race, only to see the see one of the kids unfairly pull back the leading child, winner-to-be, just so that they can trample over them and be the champion instead? This is the exact kind of behaviour that needs to be eradicated from society. What we need is to learn to overcome feelings of jealousy, inferiority and self-doubt, to learn to treat competition in the world as a chance to improve one’s own self rather than just winning by any means possible; to be, simply stated, a better human being. Now bring orphans into the picture. Orphans belonging to Aghosh Orphanage, Rawalpindi, who have no one to show them how to deal with the challenges of real life. Project “Orphan’s kNOw More”, led by event heads Abdurrehman Maqsood, Warda Batool and Maira Jalil is not a mere fundraiser. No, it is much more than that, because your money can only take these orphans so far in life.

As its name suggests, through education and learning, the project aims at assessing the personalities of these children and counselling them into strong individuals with a good moral compass. Instead of taking a “by the book” approach and lecturing them on rights and wrongs, we will show them how to apply these principles in real life, through carefully designed character building activities as simple as drawing and racing. For example, each child will be given a diary to maintain. In this diary, they will be instructed to write about how they feel, who they dislike and why. The diary will only be shown by the child to one member from the OKM team and they will be assured that there will be no barriers as to what they can write and more importantly, no judgement by their assigned OKM member. The child will also be assured that the diary will be kept confidential by their assigned OKM member. Gradually building an easy-going relationship based on trust and compassion, the diary will be used as a tool to assess their different traits e.g. aggression and the child will be mentored accordingly.

This project is an opportunity to mould out many more Aitzaz Hassans, Edhis and Dr. Abdus Salams out of these otherwise abandoned orphanages. An opportunity to mentor children who would grow up to be adults who’d choose good morals, ethics and education over corrupt methods to attain glory, out of the goodness of their hearts, on any given day! The cause of this project extends beyond anything you and I can imagine. It is a chance to shape the future of Pakistan. They have been abandoned by flesh and blood. Let’s join hands and show them that their elder brothers and sisters are still here for them to show them the right way. Charity doesn’t last forever. However, education and good morals are timeless.

Let’s work towards making a community where Orphans kNOw More!

Blood Donation Drive’15

Another episode of cool, sunny and pleasant days of December welcomed the Blood Donation Drive’15 in collaboration with AFIT which certainly became the talk of the town thanks to some epic hype created by NCSC council. All the NCSC executive members showed up at the drive camp for their duties on their respective times. An expected huge list of blood donors eager to serve humanity were well received at the registration desk by the NCSC executives. There was a lot of hustle and bustle around the blood donation camp for two straight days. Both days (15^th and 16^th of December) of blood donation saw an enthusiastic crowd eager to save lives. There were an increased number of donors around the lunch break time and the passion was clearly shown on their faces. There was no sign of any sort of hassle or rush, each blood donor was entertained with a food box and a refreshment, along with a photo-shoot in a well decorated photo-booth highlighting their invaluable effort. The NCSC council members also proved their servitude to humanity by donating their blood whenever they got the chance. Finally, as the evening shadows grew larger, and we saw that the second day drive came to an end. A total of 227 pints were collected on both days. Every member of the NCSC council seemed excited but the core team along with the event heads finally got a moment of satisfaction after two days of tireless activity. Indeed this was an exhausting affair but the blood donation event always ignites a sense of purpose and regard for humanity, and each and every individual who has donated carries this sense along with him.

By: Usman Nofal

 

 

Seminar Conducted By Dr. Patricia Omedian

An interactive session filled with brilliant ideas framed into actions by an exemplary idealist – Dr. Patricia Omedian *though she liked being called Pat and not Patricia, & loved her last name for it had Hope (Omeed) in it*, sure was the right beginning of a new month with new hopes and new faces. It was a workshop conducted at School of Mechanical & Material Engineering (SMME) at NUST on Dec 01, 2015 which provided the students knowhow of initiating and empowering community service projects. One of the most important reasons why such workshops are essential is that students at universities hardly find time to analyze their abilities and find it hard to actually know themselves, such workshops are indeed means of bringing yourself back on the right track. Optimism is the key element one learns from such gatherings.

Following the informal introduction of all the members, Dr. Patricia candidly described the importance of community services and what the community expects from every residing member. Several parameters were clarified regarding community services; for instance questions like what does an individual get out of community services, what skills does he/she gain, what worries about community entrée does an individual face and how to deal with those issues were profoundly addressed. She made sure all students participated in the discussion keenly and carried on a productive debate. Judging yourself honestly and formulating teams based on one’s own weaknesses and upon other’s strengths was indeed a lesson well learnt.

Fortunately, Pat happens to be a practical learner, she loved the concept of learning by experience and told us traumatic stories of Afghanis and how her team helped them seek optimism in their lives. She has travelled to many countries in struggle of formulating ideas to empower the community. This was essentially the reason why this session too was not just an informative talk but also packed with thought provoking activities. Indeed these are the kind of meetings one should attend to refresh one’s optimism & to restore faith in humanity.

Pakistan Chapter of the Talloires Network (PCTN) Annual Conference

It is wisely and legitimately said that two are always better than one and it is best to have more than two. The hands, which are extended for the welfare of the community are always a ray of hope that dispense the positivity that still lies among us and make us believe that there is a greater good still existing among us. The people who offer such commendable efforts are heroes in themselves and they do not need any capes or awards for their recognition. The Pakistan Chapter of the Tallories Network (PCTN) is a platform which is an initiative of NUST, that calls upon around 63 top ranked Pakistan’s institutions of Higher Education every year to come forward and share their part of the services they are offering for the wellbeing of the Pakistani under privileged community.

On 1^st December, 2015, PCTN in collaboration with the NUST Community Service Club Education Empowerment Team (NEET) held a conference in NUST School of Natural Sciences (SNS) under the supervision of Dr Muhammad Safdar. The conference included multiple university representatives from the Institute of Space Technology (IST), Bahria University, HITECH University, Virtual university and many others to collaborate on the agenda of creating a volunteer student force from all the universities and put them to work for the society as one, to provide a platform where students from different universities join together and work hands in hands for a common cause of community welfare.

A healthy debate was triggered over points of sustainability of the agenda of PCTN (NEET), financial hindrances, motivation of the lower class and local government bodies’ support. The participants shared what their institutes are doing at their scale and what they look forward to in the future. All the attendees of the conference were convinced at one single goal that is education for all, empowerment of the local community teachers and improving educational infrastructure through university provided and fund raising modes of revenue generation.

The conference concluded with proposal presentations by the participant universities and all of them agreed on working on the agenda of the conference that is to create a sustainable volunteer work force with the sole goal of achieving the philanthropic concerns shown by all.

Earthquake Relief Campaign 2015

On 28^th October, 2015, 276 souls left us and thousands of families were left devastated as a would-be historic tragedy struck the entire nation. A horrifying 7.5 magnitude earthquake, originating in Afghanistan, crept its way to the ground beneath 182 million Pakistanis, changing their lives forever. Amidst the chaos left behind after the tragedy struck the nation, a group of young and ambitious individuals rose up from the rubble to help their countrymen- specifically those with no roof left over their heads and no clothes to keep them warm in the lethal, cruel cold months that would soon approach.

While many of us were busy giving safety check-ins on Facebook, proud NCSC members Taha Fawad Azim and Haseeb, promptly designed an “Earthquake Relief Campaign” for which they were the leaders. Comprising a team of nine members, their objective was clear and transparent- to provide donations for the affectees of the quake. With the help of innumerable NUSTians, who shared the same ambition as that of the leaders, a fund of around Rs. 670,000 poured in. The donation for some would mean a warm meal in the evening, while for others it may mean the difference between life and freezing out in the cold to death. Volunteers quickly gathered to join hands, spirits heightened as ever, to set up cloth donation drives. The areas of collections included the well-populated residential areas, as well as the popular Concordias 1 and 2. The donations were transferred to the affectees, with the aid of the Pakistan army. The beneficiaries were the populations located in Mingora, Swat. The leaders have decided that the next population to receive aid from the drive is to be Chitral in the near future.

The campaign highlights the importance of the role of bright, young students in society, especially in times of crisis. It also emphasises upon how a single idea of an individual can grow into a full-blown campaign which would help around six hundred people affected by the quake to survive and rise from the ashes once more.

 

Community Services Learning- Phase 1 Projects

It is rightfully said by Sally Koch that “Great opportunities to help others seldom come; but small ones surround us every day.” To help the students recognize these small opportunities, Community Services Learning was made compulsory for final year students. Each student is required to complete 30 credit-hours of community services and in the process, learn the value of giving back and being empathetic. Phase 1 of the course required students to complete at least 10 of the total credit hours. Participants of the course undertook various projects that were aimed at bringing a change in the lives of the less fortunate. The projects carried out under the wing of NCSC have been described briefly in this article:

1.The hard work and resilience of a woman is always hidden beneath layers of dignity and selflessness. They often struggle in silence. A truly amazing empowerment project, titled “Fempower”, was established to help women like these. It is basically a Facebook based platform to highlight the struggles and amazing perseverance of the women around us. In its initial stage, the Facebook page for the project became instantly viral and the participants devotedly posted new and touching stories on an almost daily bases. The participants visited various schools in NUST as well as Edhi centre and Shifa Hospital to cover stories of hard-working women in need of assistance. This movement was able to generate a handsome amount which would be utilized for benefiting the featured women in the second phase.

2.The gift of being a man of knowledge and resources, comes with the responsibility of giving back to the less fortunate. This was the logic behind the establishment of a free Diabetes Medical Camp at a Social Security Dispensary in I-11/3, Islamabad. The project, titled ‘Care for Life’, was organized by seven members who worked tirelessly to set-up the camp with the help of staff and tools provided by The Diabetes Centre and PharmEvo. The camp provided underprivileged citizens with free tests that determined their blood glucose level, total body cholesterol percentage, blood pressure and BMI. Approximately 80 patients showed up at the camp and walked away with free medical advice and medicine. The participants not only gained the required 10 credit hours but also the satisfaction that comes with positively affecting the lives of those in need.

3.A blood donation drive was also initiated in which a total of seven participants visited the Armed Forces Institute of Transfusion and donated a pint each. Not only did the students acquire the chance to save valuable lives but for every pint donated, received a total of 5 credit hours.

4.We mostly have more than we need and in such cases, what is wiser than to share with those who don’t have enough? Keeping this in mind, 20 CSL participants organized a Cloth Donation Drive which aimed at collecting wearable and unsoiled articles of clothing. The donation was collected from campus cafes as well as hostels. A hefty amount of clothes was collected which was then donated to the earthquake victims as well as the Edhi Centre.

5.It is said that “a smile from a child is packaged sunshine and rainbows” and that is why a team of 11 students visited the Ghonsla Homes Orphanage and spent some quality time with the residents who were girls aged between 5 to 17. The younger girls were amused with activities like storytelling and art classes while the older ones were entertained by henna tattoos and talent competitions. The girls enjoyed to the fullest and made the participants feel truly welcomed.

6.For orphans, the most valuable asset is the feeling of being cared for and noticed and this was provided remarkably to the children at Sweet Home Orphanage by NUST students. A total of 33 participants decided to spend some quality time with the orphans by involving them in activities that showcased their talents. The children were also advised about their future through a series of motivational videos and talks. At the end of the session, the students left the children with gifts and everlasting smiles.

7.The importance of water cannot be denied but it is often ignored. This is what a team of CSL Participants had in mind when they organized a trip to Islamabad model primary school to hold a seminar regarding efficient usage of water. The seminar was attended by a total of 500 primary class students. The students were engaged in various activities like drawing and interactive video sessions to get them involved and interested.

8.When the bones get frail and old, the light inside begins to dim away and eventually dies out. Familiar with this phenomenon linked with old age and solitude, some very enthusiastic CSL participants set out to reignite that light in the heart of the residents of MGQ Old Home located in Rawalpindi. The residents included people suffering from both physical and/or mental illnesses. The students spent a good amount of time with the folks at MGQ and cheered them up with games, long talks and other fun activities. It was a good day for the old ones who seldom got any visits and was a self-satisfying experience for the participants as well.

9.To find a home away from home, all one needs is a sign of affection, companionship and comfort and this is what prompted some participants to pay a visit to Najjat Trust Old Homes and spend some time with the elderly who have only each other to get them through the day. The aim of the visit was to show these individuals that they are cared for and valued. The participants were able to do so by organizing various interactive activities like sketching, board games, decoration of rooms, storytelling sessions and much more. The participants even prepared a meal for the residents and made the day even more festive. The day ended with the distribution of fruits and flowers to the elderly who were blossoming with happiness and gratitude.

10.Cleanliness drives don’t always have to be mainstream and tedious. They can be amusing, interactive and inspiring. This was proved all too clearly by members of the Mural Painting project who undertook the task of painting dreary school walls with refreshing and informative drawings. One of the location was SAAYA School F-12 Islamabad where the walls were painted with pictures portraying nature and importance of cleanliness. Another location for the project was Islamabad Model School for Boys G-11/2 where the classroom walls were repainted to give them a more inviting and hospitable look. The project gave the participants a chance to learn a very productive skill and utilize it to leave long-lasting messages for the children.

11.After years of meticulous studies, students are often left to gamble with their futures because of a lack of guidance and awareness. With this in mind, 10 CSL participants decided to provide counselling to students who were on the brink of selecting their professional degrees. TABA Career Counselling session was aimed at helping young minds develop a broader perspective. The session was held at Shaheen Academy in Islamabad and intermediate level students were given awareness regarding various fields like BBA, medical, social sciences, engineering etc. The session ended with a very informative question/answer session with the students feeling much more optimistic and aware.

12.“Character is the foundation of all worthwhile success” is a lesson we should teach a child from the moment he opens his mind to the dealings of the world and so, almost 5 CSL participants took on an endeavour to visit Islamabad Model School for Boys located in G-11/2 to have a session with the young children on character building and importance of good manners. The children were kept entertained with various poems, stories and demonstrations of good basic manners. The children were left with a lasting impression and the school principal especially thanked the participants and asked them to pay frequent visits for more interactive sessions.

13.For someone who is not in the best of his health, the quickest way to the road of recovery is shown through compassion and love and this is what set CSL participants on an amazing endeavour to visit unwell children at hospitals to cheer them up in their times of anguish. After communicating with Development Officer, Asmat Ali Satti and Manager Health Education Communication, Nasir Iqbal Malik of Shifa Foundation, the participants were able to meet the children being treated at the hospital. The students involved the children in various games and activities to take their mind off the pain and dullness. Another visit was conducted at Falahee Clinic where the participants mingled with ill children and tried their level best to bring smiles to their young, yet suffering, faces.

All participants of the Phase 1 projects gave back to the society in the most productive way. They helped create a ripple that would eventually join the wave of change. In addition to that, they attained deep satisfaction that comes with serving the needy and found themselves becoming more compassionate, empathetic and humble.

CSL 401 Project 2015 – Mural Painting

Mural painting is a CSL Project targeted at improving the conditions and appearance of walls by cleaning and painting them for an attractive and refreshing look. After consideration, the walls of two schools were selected due to their poor condition. So the first implementation took place at SAAYA School F-12 Islamabad on Monday, 26^th October, 2015. A total of 21 participants started working on the veranda walls of SAYA School at 10:30 am. The aim was to provide educational assistance to the students through the painting. Ideas were exchanged, colourful paints were highlighted and after an enjoyable session by the time the clock ticked 4:00 pm a solar system, pollination, a painting regarding cleanliness and a water cycle were in existence. A flag bearing wall was also white washed and the flag of Pakistan repainted. The children were explained the importance of these paintings; especially of hand washing.

The second implementation took place at Islamabad Model School for Boys G-11/2 on Tuesday, 27^th October 2015. The rest of the 22 participants reached the school at 1:00 pm. The purpose was to make the classroom conditions neat and to give the walls a clean look. Two classrooms were selected the walls of which were in a very poor condition. Hence, amidst the dust and dirt, brushes and rollers were used to white wash the walls. A single wall was given at least two coatings. By the time participants were done, the walls presented a revitalizing and cool look. The plus side for the participants was that they learned how to mix paint and use brushes and rollers to paint the wall.

NCSC Orientation Ceremony 2015

The SMME seminar hall saw a new wave of fresh faces, waiting to be sweared in to the executive body of NCSC for the tenure 2015-2016. Huzaifa Kafeel and Mahnoor Mustabeen hosted the proceedings by giving an overview of the council hierarchy, the internal protocols, the Office Bearers’ introductions; all in as light a manner as possible.

Huzaifa then administered an oath after which the new faculty advisor was introduced and called onto the stage. He gave a brief overview of what was expected of the council and proceeded to ask community service related questions from the audience.

Among the speakers was a youth trainer, Waqar Ali, who was invited to address the congregation. He hosted an interactive session between the newer intakes and the veterans of the council, to gel them in together. Although the activity was meant for ten minutes only but the chatterboxes had to be dragged back to their chairs in order for the session to proceed. Friends acknowledged friends and strangers met each other and got to know about NCSC’s long term aim of community service. He energized all the sleepy heads by making everyone chant ‘Ao Jee!’ in answer to his intriguing questions and his hilarious remarks made it difficult for one to hold still.

After Waqar had been presented with a souvenir, Qasim Naveed took the stage to share a few inspirational messages along with a motivational video. Talha Ahmad came up next and after showing the video of “Who am i? I am a champion!” he cheered up the whole crowd by roaring the very slogan again and again.

Soon after, the entire ensemble was guided by Talha to the vast clearing between the towering SMME buildings. Along the way everyone chanted “I am a champion” in response to Talha’s roars of “who am I?”

Upon reaching there, the whole lot of pumped up council members were divided into four groups. A whole bunch of activities and games had been organized to thaw the awkwardness between the tenderfeet. Time passed with memorizing names and interests, completing challenges of lying on a bed of balloons, attempting at easing out of a loop of rope while holding hands and writing NCSC on a piece of chart by tying a marker with strings on four ends.

Rules were broken, games were won, jokes shared, laughs laughed and memories made all in the matter of a few hours.

As the clock struck 9.10 pm, everyone hurried to C1 for refreshments, some on cars, some on foot. The happening evening ended with everyone leaving NCSC’s unofficial meeting ground with a satisfied appetite and content faces.

Written By,

Syed Hassaan Tauqeer

Noor-e-Chiraghan

The air was thick with sweet Sufi melodies penetrating every nook and corner of NUST; students could be seen huddled up on footpaths, mesmerized by the music and the soothing effect it had to offer. Noor-e-Chiraghan gave students some time off from their hectic routines on the 8^th of October, Wednesday; being held at SCME ground with a time span of 5pm-11pm. The ticket to this exclusive fiesta cost a mere two hundred rupees for non-members while general members could enter at a discounted price of one fifty rupees. As expected, innumerable people poured into the beautiful fairy lights lit canopy that was housing a number of stalls. The delectable eatables available at affordable rates, providing a great alternative to the mess menu for hostelites, were bought and eaten by the famished students in no time.

For the sake of entertainment, artists, performers and beatboxers performed onstage and received applause and appreciation from the spectators. To add to this, Khujlee Vines were also invited who stole the show in the true sense leaving everyone fighting fits of laughter. The display of eye-catching decorations both on the stage and across the whole ground was a view worth-seeing. Everyone contentedly posed beside the ornamentations and behind the fully embellished photo booth depicting the back of a truck with the caption “Fasla rakhain nahin to pyar hojaega” written on it and clicked pictures. Towards the end, a bunch of flying lanterns were set off into the sky where they soon merged with the stars leaving the audience awe-struck and mesmerized. In a nutshell, it was a fun-packed, convivial and boisterous event enclosed within the canopy boundary.

By,

Warda Batool

      

             

 

NUST completes 15 water well installations in Thar for resolving water issue of the drought struck area

In an effort to improve the health and hygiene of the rural population of Sindh, NUST Community Service Club (NCSC) with the support of NUST Administration successfully completed the installation of 15 water wells in Thar. The organization Association for Water, Applied Education & Renewable Energy (AWARE) worked on the installation of water well for the residents of Thar.

AWARE proposed to provide safe drinking water through water well installation in order to improve health and hygiene of 15 villages of Union Council Khejrari & Faqeer Abdullah Taluka and District Umerkot. The project was based on installed 15 water wells. Total populations of beneficiaries are 4,678 souls covering 832 households. On 22 May, 2015, two students from NUST belonging to Thar area visited the 15 sites and met community partners for a need analysis survey before intiating the project.

The major purpose was to make easier for villagers to get water because it is difficult practice of dragging out water from depth of 200 feet. As water is deep in area and underground water is difficult to drag out from dug wells compels inhabitants to use less water and resulting hygiene issues affects health and living standards. Mostly children and women had to bear the brunt of the situation. Children had to look after animals, which are used for hauling water bucket from dug wells and women had to fetch water in pitchers, carrying on head to home.

The main objectives achieved from the installation of wells include:

• Providing safe drinking water to 4,678 souls of 11 villages through installation of 15 water wells to improve health and hygiene of the people in project period

• Reducing absenteeism and drop-out ratio among school going children through provision of easy access to water in 11 villages in project period

• Promoting participatory development approach by engaging community to increase the access of the people in U.C Khejrari & Faqeer Abdullah to safe drinking water through installation of 15 water wells.

• Improving health and hygiene of the people by providing safe drinking water and raising awareness among them.

This project was completed on August 25, 2015. Previously, a well was installed in Ratan Bheel Paro of union council Khejrari, district Umerkot, Sindh which benefited 350 people from 50 households.

NCSC would like to thank all its donors in sponsoring the wells and doing their part in addressing the water issue of several areas by construction of a total of 16 water wells by NUST.

NCSC Membership and Recruitment Drive 2015

*Cue DRUMROLL*

Attention all those brainy heads out there! It is finally here, the membership and recruitment drive of one of the biggest clubs at NUST i.e. NUST Community Services Club! It’s high time you put your brilliant brains out of the cage & started thinking out of the box for a change; allow yourself to dream at a larger scale and aspire to be a young humanitarian, activist and a person to be of service to the community. NCSC is looking for youthful talent with calibre in the different domains that our club has to offer and more importantly, innovative ideas of projects and events for helping the community at large. All you need to have to become an integral part of NCSC is a driving force that makes you think of others before yourself, makes you see beyond the superficial forms of happiness that everyone is running after, one that does not let you eat unless you have fed a starved brother or one that merely instils in you a passion for bringing about a positive change.

If seeing somebody smile their brightest one and knowing that you are the reason for it provides you with eternal bliss, if helping someone in hardship is the highlight of your week, if you are aware of the power of giving, donating and helping then you definitely belong with NCSC. With all this satisfaction and feeling of fulfilment, you also get to have discounts at your favourite eateries all around Islamabad. Moreover, if you opt to join us, you get generous discounts on all NCSC events such as knack of all this, NCSC gala, Footy mania, Vocalize your talent, karaoke night, and also get sponsored for international conferences.

I would say my motivation for working as a part of NCSC is this saying by Margaret Mead : “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” So, if you think you have what it takes to become one of us, APPLY AWAY!

Written by: Warda Batool

Annual Award Ceremony 2015

The NUST Community Service Club wrapped off the activities of the Academic Year 2014-15 with a formal Award Ceremony. As a platform to appreciate the time and effort of everyone who’s made NCSC win laurels this year, the society granted certificates and souvenirs to its valuable members. As chief guests, Brig. Arif and Principal SMME praised the efforts of Dr. Irtiza and his team, along with everyone involved in the NCSC.

The ceremony extensively appreciated the talent and skill of every member, belonging to all chapters and sub-divisions of the NCSC. Letters of Appreciations accompanied the certificates that were handed to all of the executive members. For members with exceptional tenures, special souvenirs were awarded. In her farewell speech, the Press Secretary Anjli Chhatwani announced the launch of the revamped version of NCSC’s website, featuring exciting new additions and functionalities to better showcase the society’s different aspects. She also announced the launch of a Monthly Newsletter for enhanced outreach of the society’s ventures.

By the end, the ceremony showcased the new set of Office-Bearers that were selected for the Academic Year 2015-16.

The ceremony ended with tea, and an all-council group photo.

Written by: Danyal Ahmed Khalid

NCSC FOOTY MANIA’15

The NBS ground lit up to the radiating flood lights, as the crowd cheered on the qualifying teams for the semi-final stage. The opening match for the day was played out between THUDA FC and NBS Lions. The game was neck and neck and at full time both had a goal point in their bag. THUDA FC, however, snatched the game in a swift score during the penalty rounds.

The second semi-final was also considered an upset by the commentators, where the PAF Blitzkrieg took the game by one goal to none in a very close game with POPO FC. After a short break, the final commenced. PAF took charge of the game quite early in the first half by scoring a near impossible shot and kept their lead until the start of the second half, soon after which THUDA regained their ever so lost momentum and scored their first goal. Their confidence seemed to rise exponentially following their goal. PAF was cornered and then shot upon; volley after volley until THUDA had their second and eventually third goal in the final moments of the game.

Dr. Irtiza was the guest of honor for the event who presented mementos to both finalists and then the cup to the winners. Nosherwan Sohail won the golden boot for being the highest scorer in the tournament. Nustians who came to watch the matches had a festive time this week complete with food and energizing music.

Written by: Syed Hassaan Tauqeer

Nust Naatak

‘You must not lose faith in humanity. Humanity is an ocean; if a few drops of the ocean are dirty, the ocean does not become dirty.’

Mahatma Gandhi

NCSC is one of the best societies of NUST which considers serving the humankind its utmost duty. In this modern age, although the technology has reached the peak of innovation but the human nature, on the other hand has become corrupt and morally deteriorated. It has become selfish, deceiving, egoistic and intolerant.

To raise a voice against the evil and to make people realize the truth, NCSC council decided to convey an eye-opening message through a play, under the supervision of the very able event Head; Qasim Naveed. The play was one of its kind, performed by the students throughout NUST, from the hostels to the cafes, from parking lots of the departments to breaks between different events. The rehearsals and selection of the students was an experience of its own in which students participated enthusiastically.

The play depicted different scenarios; basically a comparison between the life of an upper class family and a lower class family. The first scene portrayed the sad life of a beggar who has nothing to live on but by selling newspapers. He is a young kid, who should in reality be in school but due to his financial conditions, is forced to sell newspapers and earn for his family. Such kids are often scolded by the people passing by. The second part of the NATAK showed how a child belonging to a well-off family wastes her food and belongings without even caring for a second. The third and the final act depict the life of a poor, innocent child whose leg is forcefully broken so that he may beg and earn a lot of money due to his medical unfitness.

This six-minute act showed the eye-opening incidents going on regularly in our life that nobody cares about anymore. The need of the time is the realization of the wrongdoings in the society and lending our hand to make a difference before the fire of evil eats up all of us, before we reach a state from where coming back is impossible. May Allah assist us all in doing that.

Written by: Kanza Rasheed

Knack of All This: Closing day

10^th April’s setting sun saw the end of NCSC’s most unconventional event, “The Knack of All This”. Held in the towering SMME buildings, this week long program pulled dozens of participants.
The SAP 2000 workshop opened the day’s events. Ali Abbas and Nouman Rafique built up on the basics of the previous day’s lessons and continued advancing to tougher subject matter.
In the opposing building The Guitar learning/Singing workshop was picking up pace. Aiman Shabbir and Abbas Hasany taught their class the advanced features of strumming and rhythm building.
On a lower floor a band of aspiring civil engineers were laboriously soldiering on, braving their fatigued routine, to lay layer upon layer of virtual concrete, in the “Revit” workshop. Muneeb Afzal, the instructor of the class marched to and fro helping every participant individually.

While the classes came to an end, the NCSC organizing team was in the conference room signing the certificates. Soon after, the teachers and participants were all invited to join the closing ceremony, where the event heads distributed certificates to the teachers; who had put in a great deal of their personal time to share their knowledge among their peers. Aiman was called on-stage to end the evening on the tune of a melodious song; to which the crowd heartily joined in.

Written by: Syed Hassaan Tauqeer

Knack of all this has begun!

The start to the second season of NCSC’s most interactive and innovative event in NUST was nothing short of amazing. All the classes were scheduled between 5-7pm but all the participants, students and teachers seemed jubilant and excited for the commencement of classes. Although there was adequate hype for all of the classes but the classes of riveting, sketching and guitar gained particular interest. Riveting class saw a houseful while other classes saw a lot of talented and eager individuals who came out to learn with a clear purpose before themselves.  E-tabs and WordPress classes were also arranged.

Sketching and painting class was blessed to have such talented individuals as teachers, the way they transformed a normal class into an interactive session by a series of intuitive small tasks and untargeted puns indulged the students in the class. The guitar lessons were at first random walk-throughs but as the initials were passed, the teacher surely introduced a couple of tricks about plucking, notes and tuning, after which proper rhythm lessons were introduced. Riveting class was so enormous that even the teacher sensed heat and reached for his helper. They both showed the different aspects of riveting and its applications on the software and were warmly applauded at the end of their session which marked satisfaction and fun learning from student’s side.

All the scheduled classes were held in SMME (both old and new building) and were thoroughly managed and patrolled by NCSC executives who ensured a smooth and steady flow of processes. Then the time came when the sun set and every class came to end with students and teachers both looking forward to another fun and learning packed day of the event.

Written by: Usman Nofal

Knack Of All This 2.0

Do you think your talents have been veiled for too long? Do you too have a knack for something? Have you been waiting to be under the spotlight all this time? The odds must be in your favour since you have the perfect golden opportunity in the name of KNACK OF ALL THIS 2.0! Yes, that’s right! The sequel to one of the most successful NCSC events last semester is here! It has been scheduled to go on for about a week; from 6^th to 10^th of April.

So gear up people and brace yourselves to witness one of the biggest events of this semester. Who’s teaching? YOU. Who’s learning? YOU.  You can either be the performer or the learner in the audience. You can be the one applauding or the one receiving the praise or you can be both!

Think of anything you do that is unique and get registered as a teacher. It could be something from your dexterity with guitar strings, expertise in photo shopping, craft in painting, mastery in communicating or proficiency in any kind of sport. Or else, think of any skill that you might want to learn and get registered as a student. It could be something you have always dreamt of learning; be it singing, skating, basketball, football…anything at all! Thus, it is your chance to not only exhibit your talents but also help others get better at the skills you have mastered.

Excited yet? Well you better be since registrations are already open.  The process is super easy and would be completed in a jiff! One change in the registration process though: you would have to pay fifty rupees for each course you register for; but the third course is free in such a case. So grab this chance and learn in a way better than ever before!

Also, on the last day of the event, every one of the attendees would be given a chance to showcase their freshly learnt skills and receive the much deserved appreciation from their friends and fellow nustians. So, five words for the event: A WHOLE LOT OF FUN!

We hope to see a huge number of you talented people and also those keen ones who wish to learn!

Written by: Warda Batool

The Second PCTN Conference

The 2^nd PCTN conference was held at NUST on March 18^th, 2015 welcoming the delegates and representatives of different universities across Pakistan. The purpose of this conference was to discuss and innovate “Sustainable Development Solutions and Action Plans for Universities and their Youth” which was well debated and expressed. The conference started a bit late at 11:00 am against the stipulated time of 10:00am. The honorable minister of planning, development and reforms, Mr. Ahsan Iqbal also attended the event and shared his thoughts and reviews about the current energy scenario in Pakistan and what the energy future plans are. Insights of various other notable and sublime individuals representing their universities was given prime importance. CIPS seminar hall, host of the event, became the buzz of the campus drawing in enthusiastic students, teachers and students from other institutions as well to attend the conference.

Maintaining their previous stature, NCSC council was at the frontline serving the attendees as ushers and organizers to smoothen the happenings. The admin events and media teams were among the busiest, catering the needs of people there and taking camera-shots of the event at regular intervals. The lunch break was observed from 1:00pm – 2:00 pm and there was another 2 hour session afterwards which also included a motivational speech by the NUST rector, Engr Muhammad Asghar. The conference was ultimately concluded on a high with a lot of expectations from youth of Pakistan to step-up and resolve the energy crisis the nation is facing currently by moving towards renewable and indigenous energy sources keeping in view the financial constraints. A session of tea and snacks was followed afterwards to refresh all the attendees and to bid them a warm farewell.

Written by: Usman Nofal

Workshop on Sucide Prevention

The seminar “Suicide prevalence in Pakistani youth: role of educational institutes as mentor” was held today in ASAB auditorium of NUST, having been organised by C3A. The seminar commenced with Quran recitation, followed by a short welcome speech by Director C3A Ms. Naureen Akhtar.  Alongside Ms. Naureen, Dr. Asif Raza ( Pro-Rector NUST) was present as chief guest and Dr. Murad Musa khan as the speaker for the seminar. Dr. Murad Musa being the professor at the department of psychiatry at Aga Khan University and Vice president of IASP had unparalleled expertise in the matter of suicide prevalence and prevention.

Dr. Musa explained to the attendees that suicide is a complex phenomenon and has been listed as one of the leading causes of death by WHO. It is not a disease but it does include a suicidal pathway for the individual that leads him towards suicide. It depends on an interplay of social, biological, psychological and personal factors leading to a rough estimate of about 1death per 40 seconds; the ratio being higher for the youngsters & women as compared to the elderly & men respectively. He went on to discuss the sociological causes and some controversial topics such as suicide bombings, Satti, Hara-kiri and suicide as a sign of social protest. He then led on to suicide in Pakistan: what Islam says about suicide, how the Pakistani law treats this, the mental health act, social point of view, suicide trends and estimated number of deaths due to suicide. Lastly, he talked about viable ways of suicide prevention. Mainly, he proposed that all faculty members of an institution must be trained for counselling of their students in every possible way, the child-parent communication gap must be bridged and most importantly governance shall be improved and corruption eradicated.

In the end, a Q/A session was held and a shield was presented as a token of gratitude to Dr. Murad Musa Khan.

Blood donation drive 2.0 kicks off!

The measure of a life, after all, is not its duration, but its donation – Corrie Ten Boom

From the hustle and bustle of everyday life, the students of NUST took a day to lend a helping hand! It may have costed them like their 15 minutes but the truth is each and every student saved three lives.

The second day of the blood donation drive organized by NCSC in collaboration with Jameela Sultana Foundation was a sight to be proud of. Students lined up to donate blood, waiting impatiently for their moment to be a hero. Although some were there for the sake of the social hours they were required to fulfill but most were only there out of compassion and a will to give back.

Herds of students were coming to give the gift of life with the hope of getting the sandwich and the juice too and were rushing in the same general direction. Some were veterans while most were first timers and it was heartwarming to see the youth filled with the spirit to donate. They were not only donating themselves but encouraging and dragging their friends to the camp to do the same.

Commenting on the organizational aspect, I would say that it was very well managed and the whole process couldn’t be any smoother. The NCSC team and the team from Jameela Sultana Foundation were extremely cordial. A first time donor even commented that he felt really safe and comfortable donating due to the extremely friendly environment.

Talking of a friendly environment, it would be remiss to ignore the efforts of the NCSC team that went into making the camp look inviting and to make the whole process inclusive. There was a table outside the camp with an overturned banner where people could comment and write anything they want to. I saw comments from various members of the NCSC team and some from those who had come to donate. As there is still one more day to go so I would end this entry on an entry from the banner “Donate Generously!”

Written by: Muhammad Sheharyar Javed

We’re gearing up to save lives again!

Couldn’t really muster up the courage to face a needle or weren’t aware at the time? Well then, get into the spirit of giving at the second annual NCSC Blood Donation Drive. NCSC holds its blood donation drives twice a year. These drives are held in collaboration with reputed organizations such as AFIT, PRCS, SBTP, Fatima Foundation and Jamila Sultana Foundation, ergo you can rest assured that the process will be safe and hygienic and your blood will find way to a life which direly needs it.

The major receivers of the donated blood are thalassemia patients. For those of you who aren’t familiar with the disease; thalassemia is an inherited (gene) condition affecting the blood. There are different types, which vary from a mild condition with no symptoms, to a serious or life-threatening condition. The disorder results in excessive destruction of red blood cells, which leads to anemia and possibly death. The normal red blood cell range in a healthy human varies from 4.2 to 6.1 million cells per microliter; in a thalassemia patient the count is far lesser. The most common treatment for this condition is blood transfusion that is why through this camp we hope to save as many lives as we can. By giving a single pint of blood, you will be able to help save as many as three lives.

You may well have been motivated enough but are afraid of needles?
If you answered in the affirmative then you’re not alone. Many people share your fear but they still find themselves donating blood. The initial pinch will fade in comparison with the feeling of accomplishment that you’ll get after a successful donation. The well-trained attending staff will make sure you feel nothing other than like somebody’s hero.
We do however have a few tips for you before you gear up:
• Hydrate (drink as much liquid, before and after your donation, as you can)
• Have a healthy meal before your donation ( avoid fatty foods prior to donation)
• Bring a distraction (a favorite book or your mp3 player)
• Bring moral support (get your friend to come along)
• Keep your eye on the prize (your donation is saving lives)

So leave behind your fears, steel yourself and get ready to give back to the community because every life counts.

Written by: Hassaan Tauqeer Syed

Naya Jeevan

16^th December, 2014… the day that left every eye in the nation tearful and every living heart in the entire country drenched with agony.  The Taliban attack on the innocent souls of APS Peshawar is something that will never be forgotten or justified. APS Peshawar is a school of bravest students ever, who were brutally attacked by TTP on the mournful morning of 16^th December, 2014. The militants killed around 141 young students in an inhuman manner and left the mothers of the nation in tears, only with the memories of their children to live for their entire life.

These brave students had gone through such indescribable incidents that it was as the need of the hour to help them and the lamenting families out of anxiety, depression and PTSD (Post-traumatic stress disorder). They needed to be shown a new hope, a new light, a new way to overcome everything they had endured.

Under these circumstances, Naya Jeevan, a non-profit organization, thought of a plan for providing the necessary mental health services. Among 180 million people, only 21 psychiatrists licensed to provide those services were not adequate enough. Naya Jeevan’s devised plan was to openly call out all international and national mental health counselors, psychologists, psychiatrists and therapist to come help deal with the immense grief felt by the affected after the brutal attack and help these students and families go through life again with a renewed spark.

Over 400 requests by volunteers were received from within Pakistan and across the globe willing to help with this effort, out of which the first needs Assessment Team went to Peshawar loaded with art therapy supplies and letters of love and affection from Nixor College students. The courage of the Army Public School child survivors was commendable when they met with the team of therapists and organizers. As, it was the duty of all of us to help these children, kids who had lost their best friends, classmates and teachers to violence, Naya Jeevan’s initiative ‘karbuland’  which involves mental rehabilitation for the survivors of the peshawar tragedy, was effectively launched.

Naya Jeevan, Karbuland will launch its Phase 2 soon which involves training of teachers at non-APS schools in stress management and video-enabled teletraining of local psychologists in the Peshawar region.It is said, and truly so, that life is meant to serve others, to give, to care of those in sorrow. Such humanitarian organizations should be appreciated for it is the utmost need of humankind to learn humanity. May Allah help the affected families out of the state of loss and may initiatives like ‘karbuland’ be successful.

To know more about the organization and how to help please visit it’s Facebook page:

https://www.facebook.com/nayajeevan

Written by: Kanza Rasheed

Learning like never before!

What can be more exciting than skating, singing, photography and guitar playing to get a break from our tiring routines when finals are right around the corner and everybody is busy in projects and end-of-semester assignments!!! Yes, NCSC brought an event of its own kind this semester “Knack of all this” in which the NUSTians got a golden opportunity to learn amazing skills from their fellow NUSTians in proper, scheduled classes at SMME throughout the week from 8-12 December, 2014. An overwhelming majority of students stepped forward, willing to showcase their hidden talents to fellow NUSTians under this platform.

The main event was preceded by a pre-event meeting headed by Sahibzada Usman, the event head.  He selected the teachers from the executives who were willing to teach the participants. The exciting talents to be showcased included basketball, singing, skating, photography, guitar playing, photoshop, revit, wordpress, sketching and even procrastinating!

The official classes began on Tuesday. The photography class was conducted by professional photographers who taught skilfully how to capture the world in the clicks of the much-wanted DSLR. The introduction to basics included the influence of lighting and shadows on objects and sceneries. The students were shown how to work photography both in theory and practice. On the other hand, the singing and guitar lesson included introduction to string names, common patterns of strumming and details of the fret board. Participants gave their vocal chords some tuning before they jumped the stage to spread the magical trance. Meanwhile, our procrastinator was busy getting his workshop attendees a taste of how to waste time in a fashionable manner. To waste time is an art, one which anyone can master, if only will and hard work are absent. Another fun feature of the day included basketball and skating classes. The basketball court saw some LeBron moves while the NBS parking lot was fashioned into a makeshift skating arena.

As the event progressed, the number of participants increased and there were enough interesting and fun-filled sessions to cater them all. The photoshop and singing classes were attended by students with the same zeal and zest. In addition to these classes, there was also the public speaking class. This class was taught by a very inspirational teacher who brought forward their confidence and made them forget about their fears. The photography session included taking the students out into the open field and take photos of their own liking.

The vibrant event was rightly concluded in a vibrant manner on the final day. The event head acknowledged the event to be a prototype test run, after his address, some breath-taking performances from the people who were the instructors in the whole event spiced up the environment. Performances included break dancing, guitar playing, rapping and duets from the instructors as well as volunteers from the crowd. The most notable moments included “Love the way you Lie”, sung by Rija and then the duet performances by Arsal and Sahibzada Usman. Sufi-ism also warmed up the hall, “Teray Ishq Nachaya” and “Manwa Re” were the songs that were up in the crowd’s claps. A trance blanketed the hall and the melodious evening came to a befitting end.

 

Knack of all this!

Are you talented? Do you have something unique in you? Do you have the wow factor? Well NCSC brings you a platform to shine. It is going to provide for you a spotlight to emerge and show NUST just what you’re made of. YES, NCSC is bringing you the event of the year. Yes people! Knack of all this is a platform on which YOU can show people your talents, and mesmerize them with your hidden potentials.

For all of you wondering what this event is all about, let me enlighten you. Knack of all this is a weeklong event where by students of NUST will showcase their talents. Now there will be two categories of people signing up for this event. One with the talent, and the second wanting to learn that talent. Sounds fun right? This event is all about opening the doors to various possibilities for the students who want to learn. Learn things that our usual day studies don’t teach us. Say charcoal art, skateboarding, playing the guitar, Sudoku, Boggle, ribbon work, knot art and what not?

At the last day of the event all the people who have signed up for learning will exhibit it in front of the audience. This event will include fun learning and interaction among the students which is always healthy. It will teach them co-ordination and team work.

Also the highlight of the event would be the SOS children. Yes people, SOS village kids will be coming to attend this event. It would be a fun learning environment for them and it would be nice for them to step out of their comfort zone. So what are YOU going to teach them? It will surely bring a smile to their young bright faces.

Please do sign up for the event because this is something very new and innovative. NUST has yet to see the colours of its people and just what these young people are truly made of. Come join us and have the best week of your life at knack of all this!

Event date:  8^th to 12^th December.

Giving the gift of life

While continuing its legacy of gathering maximum number of blood donors from all around NUST, NCSC succeeded in getting 100 blood donations on the final day of the Blood Donation Drive, raising the total count to 377. The donors’ enthusiasm and compassion to serve humanity was quite evident as they eagerly waited in long queues to get their blood samples examined by the AFIT staff to confirm their eligibility to donate blood. The medical history of the donors was also inquired about by the staff to guarantee safe blood donation. More male donors were observed in a larger number as compared to the female donors.

The NCSC team remained keen and vigilant while on duty and ensured the proper provision of refreshments to the donors. The donors were fully facilitated by the assistive and hospitable doctors on duty who ensured their comfort. After donating the blood, the altruistic donors got photographed at Pic-A-Booth by a photographer arranged by NCSC to show their oneness for humanity and make their act of kindness memorable. As it was the last day of the BDD, hence the drive was wrapped up by 4pm by the NCSC team while a large number of volunteers were still pouring in the camp. The BDD drive by NCSC proved to be a groundbreaking success as it provided a platform for the philanthropists to gather and put their love for humanity finally into action.

A warm and exciting welcome!

Welcoming new members into a family is always difficult. It is a difficult process which involves getting to know one another and building trust. NCSC however accomplished the task in one full sweep.

NCSC held its orientation on Friday to welcome new members into its fold. Everything worked like a well-oiled machine in part due to the tireless efforts of the old members. The formal half of the event started at a quarter to four with an address by the faculty sponsor, Dr. Irtiza. He enlightened the executive body with the aims and objectives of the society. This was followed by the screening of two emotionally moving and motivating informative short films which portrayed some of the evils and injustice out in the world and how we, as part of the NCSC, could follow in the footsteps of philanthropists to bring about a positive change in the society. This was followed by a tea break while the council members also discussed their queries with Dr. Irtiza to get useful pieces of advice.
The next half was informal which provided a great opportunity for the new members to be eased into the fold of NCSC family. Several games were played where the OBs were pitted against one another. These games were the highlight of the day. The games allowed the new members an opportunity to interact and mingle with the old members in a loose and friendly manner promoting friendship and trust.

All the games were played by four randomly formed teams and each team being headed by an OB. The very first game was based on memory. Everybody had to memorize the names of all their teammates, their departments, batch and one crazy thing about each teammate. I’ll be honest it seemed silly at the time I heard it, but it was real fun!!! It gave a chance to the team members to interact with each other in a friendly manner. This was followed by a game of minefield which was to be played in pairs whereby one member was guide the other, blindfolded member, through a minefield. Now while, our host, Qasim was explaining the game he kept on saying that we had arrange ourselves into “couples.” As one might imagine everyone broke out laughing. He had to be told over and over to say ‘pairs’ and not ‘couples.’ The game was only successfully completed by two couples – sorry pairs. Next came the ‘helium stick.’ I’m not going to go into the details of how this game is played – you can Google it. It was by far the most difficult game of the day. The last game of the day was ‘antakshari.’ With an encyclopedic knowledge of songs on each team, the game went on for an eternity – a very musical and melodious eternity. From new to the old, from sad to party and from hits to flops all types of songs were sung.

All these games promoted team building. From memorizing the names of each member to working as a team and to be able to trust and depend upon our teammates; the members were able to form bonds of friendship and the initial phase of awkwardness was substituted for by a fun-filled evening.

Besides the games, the highlights were the slogans of “Go Qasim Go”; Qasim being the event head for the ice-breaking session and was teased for not telling the correct results. The event was a huge success. It achieved its goal of welcoming new members. By the end there was little difference between the old and the new members and the night came to a close with a series of council photos and selfies.

Who is Hussain?

‘Who Is Hussain?’ is an international organisation working at its best to generate awareness amongst the masses about the ultimate sacrifice made by Imam Hussain and what it means for sustaining humanity. They strive to make people realise how the unfortunate incident of Imam Hussain’s martyrdom influences them and how they can gain from it. ‘Who is Hussain?’ was initialized as a campaign in 2012 by a handful of dedicated individuals. Since then, it has thrived and more people have joined in; leading to a number of 60 representatives in different countries around the world.
A campaign was also recently launched by the organisation under the name ‘#TeamGiveBack’ to help the community and bring a positive change. Muslims all over the globe are encouraged to actively take part in the campaign through videos, pictures, blood donation drives and candlelight vigils. Members of ‘#Team Give Back’ hand out water bottles and doughnuts to passers-by telling them about Imam Hussain and inviting them to join in on the team. Moreover, they donate lunch boxes to the homeless, distribute life boxes to the poor, hand out chocolates and sweets on Imam Hussain’s birth anniversary, provide the aged with eatables and medicine, give out muffins and info leaflets and much more, all to spread Imam Hussain’s message of sacrifice and humanity.
Kosh Malihabadi said, ‘Let humanity awaken and every tribe will claim Hussain as their own’. Imam Hussain is undoubtedly our own, so let’s prove it! Do not miss a chance to get to know more about Islam and its principles; and learn more about ways to benefit the society. Plus you get 2 credit hours of community service so yay!
We look forward to seeing you at the seminar.

A life saving gift

As the current population of the world has achieved overwhelming increasing figures and much of the world and Asia particularly is saturated with almost 50% of humanity, it becomes a necessity to work for the betterment for this amassing humanity in one way or another. Almost a moral duty, blood donation comes first in the list of most benefitting social services than can be available to the community.

Blood donation is not only a healthy and productive activity, it also has certain positive medical advantages associated with the process, like the production of fresh blood. A person should feel confident about blood donation and also rightfully call himself a SUPERHERO! This effort of yours will be used to save your fellow human beings struggling with a disease or an unexpected accident. It also provides a vital supply of blood in case of any calamity or disaster so it is always important to donate your blood, the effort shall not be WASTED in any case, it’ll always have been to save a life. The importance of blood is highlighted in many holy books as blood is directly related to the life and well-being of a fellow human.

Now mentioned here are some of the basic precautionary measures that must be taken by enthusiastic blood donors. Blood donors should get their vitals checked before donation and preferably come on an empty stomach. After the donation, they must take an adequate supply of fluids and must abstain from any strenous activity ot hobby. In case of any dizziness or numbness, a person must lift his feet up in the air until you feel normal again. Overall, the process isn’t something to worry about, it’s a harmless process with a lot of health benefits along with the mental satisfaction of having saved a life.

So, this is us wishing you a
HAPPY DONATING EXPERIENCE!

Welcoming the Executive Council 2014-2015

NUST Community Services Club is a society which not only strives for the betterment of the society we are a part of but also lends a helping hand to the humanity. NCSC promised its Gold Members last semester that they will be preferred to be recruited for the new executive council of 2014-2015 while at the same time it also announced to give preference to its members, who joined NCSC this semester, for its executive-ship.
Keeping this in mind, NCSC Office bearers; President NCSC, Rida Aleem, General Secretary, Ali Imran, Treasurer, Ali Khalid and Press Secretary, Anjli Chitwani conducted interviews to induct executive members at CCA Room, SCME office periodically from the 29th of October to the 6th of November. The huge response of students of NUST was commendable.

“The true happiness of a man is having clear conscience being useful for humanity.”

The CCA room was filled with a non-ending queue of passionate students who understood that one of the main reasons to live for is serving the humanity. Finally, the tiring efforts of the OBs gave its fruit and 37 new members were recruited in different departments; Content development, Media, Publications, Décor, Logistics, Liaison, Events, HR and Finance Teams. NCSC greets its new members with heartiest congratulations and looks forward to a year of success.

Talking Change

The last decade or so we have seen tremendous change in society and it’s workings and owing to this change we have also seen a growing trend of people who are taking responsibility for themselves and the society they live in by becoming social entrepreneurs. Looking at this trend Nust arranged a workshop for the community services course participants teaching them the ins and outs of social entrepreneurship.

The workshop started with the explanation of the importance of Social entrepreneurship especially as societies continue to face challenges of every sort. Social entrepreneurs were therefore in turn motivated to understand the adaptive capacity and life changing potential their work carried. In order to inspire the participants even more examples were given from the international community as well as from within Pakistan. The most prominent figure mentioned, who we would call a social entrepreneur internationally, was Florence Nightingale. Florence Nightingale redefined what it meant to be a nurse by her selfless service and dedication to the profession, she is now called the founder of modern nursing. An example from within Pakistan which was nothing but inspiring was that of Women’s Digital League, a venture started by Maria Umar, which empowers women by giving them a platform to work on their own and establish themselves as talented professionals.

The workshop ended by a few pointers for the participants that would guide them on how to start and compose an enterprise for themselves. The workshop was very informative and gave the participants the push they might need to go out and change the world around them.

Deosai – The Last Sanctuary

From beasts we scorn as soulless,
In forest, field and den,
The cry goes up to witness
The soullessness of men.
~M. Frida Hartley

NCSC continuing this week also with the coursework for the NUST final year students screened the Walkabout Films’ documentary “Deosai-The Last Sanctuary” at RIMMS from 2:00 to 3:30 p.m. this Thursday, 30th October, 2014. NCSC not only believes in working strenuously for the welfare of humankind but it also put in its efforts to arouse hope for the betterment of the endangered animals and species. And in believing so, final year CSL students were shown this documentary which has been made by Mr. Nasir Malik, a veteran Documentary Film maker, Naturalist & Humanitarian.
The documentary is based on the life of endangered Himalayan brown bears present in the Deosai plateau, which is known as the highest plateau in the world located in the Karakoram and the western Himalayas. The film itself covers the life of the brown bears, whose number has reduced to only 42-45 in the Deosai National Park because of the lack of funds, the increasing no. of tourists who affect the peaceful ecosystem malevolently and the shepherds who are responsible for the burning of the flora and fauna of the valley.

The documentary clearly shows upon the charming beauty of the valley while throwing light upon the factors affecting the natural beauty and wildlife of the area. It has beautifully captured the lush green meadows, the blooming grasslands, the hills carpeted with flowers and the crystal-clear water of the lake. “Deosai, the Last Sanctuary” is part of the ‘Give Back Project’ to educate local communities about the wildlife conservation and the animal life-saving problems and its solutions.

80-90 course participants attended the screening of the documentary followed by a very healthy question-answer session. The session ended with a positive response from the students’ side.

NCSC is getting bigger and we’re excited

NUST Community Services Club works for the betterment of humankind because we believe that:
“The purpose of life is not to be happy- but to matter, to be productive, to be useful, to have it make some difference.”
The question that keeps on coming to one’s mind is that why and how he/she can make his life, his efforts, his doings and his deeds really fruitful and worthwhile. Ultimate and true satisfaction can be only be achieved, indeed, by trying your best to make this life better for others.

NCSC has been working since many years, tirelessly inside and outside NUST to provide maximum benefit for the people and the society we are a part of. NCSC is: “Working towards a better change in the society.”

Just last year, NCSC executives, putting in the best of their potentials, worked around the year, fulfilling its goal of healing the world. It successfully held its flood relief campaign, earthquake relief campaign for our brothers and sisters in Baluchistan, two blood donation drives, a free eye-camp and much more. It plans to work arduously this year too and for the years to come to help the vulnerable in the society, receiving the fruit of its efforts when an orphan child’s eye twinkles, when an old lady’s love is cherished and when the smiles shine on the sad faces of the homeless people.

Believing so and to giving students a golden chance to lend a healing hand to the humanity, NCSC initiated its general membership drive in the very start of the semester. The positive response of the students was commendable and appreciable as these students realized the importance of being a helping human amidst the toil of their hectic studies and their race to achieve a good GPA. The executive members of NCSC held the drive in Concordia 1 and Concordia 2 throughout September and the first week of October. The NCSC General members were granted with incentives like a 10% discount in the following cafes or restaurants:
-Pappasallis
-Coffee Planet
-MR. COD
-Roasters
and a discount on every event of NCSC.
Plus, they will also be given 50% discount for NUST Media Club events. All the money collected from the membership drive was sent to the Student Fee Fund.

For the entertainment of the new general members, NCSC conducted a free movie night, streaming the horror movie ‘Mama’ set up a photo booth and organized a Karaoke night about which we will be giving a detailed coverage later. We are really excited for out new recruits and aim to continue to work for the welfare of mankind with the strong hands of the newly joined members and will put in the efforts to serve and give to make our life and the life of others worthwhile.

Life saving skills

How to administer first aid is an important and lifesaving skill, therefore a relevant on the do’s and don’ts of first aid were demonstrated in last week’s workshop for the students of the community services course. The information was comprehensive and the lecture was assisted by visual slides complete with headings and essential points so the participants could jot down the vital knowledge. To keep the attention of the audience during this three hour class important procedures were demonstrated on stage. The situations discussed ranged from fractures to snake bites and thorough explanations were given on how these situations should be dealt with in case of injury to yourself or some other. Like every other workshop questions were encouraged so that the procedures and information was clear to each and every participant. The highlight of the workshop was the fire drill that involved giving the participants hands on training on how to use a fire extinguisher if the need arises. The exercise was fun achieving its goal of keeping this lesson memorable for the participants so that they are able to use these skills when required any point in time.

Taking Initiative

“Educating the mind without educating the heart is no education at all.”

National University of Science and Technology not only believes in graduating learned professionals with all the sufficient abilities to face the competent world out there but also grooming strong human beings with a generous heart to serve the community, playing their role for the ultimate betterment of the society. That is why NUST makes it compulsory for all of its graduates to complete 50 credit hours in their final year, for their community services course. Keeping this in mind, NCSC offers its course participants a number of interesting events every year to assist them in completing their credit hours in the best possible way. So, taking the very first step, NCSC introduced its events details this week in SMME and NBS on Tuesday, September 23, 2014 and Thursday, September 25, 2014.

Dr Irtiza took this opportunity to guide the students on how to manage a community service project right from the planning stages to the evaluation and feedback stages in the end. This was in order to prepare them to take on projects on their own or become part of a project already being taken on by the NCSC. Accordingly, the event heads from NCSC briefed the students about the coursework for different categories followed by an interactive question answer session. NCSC TABA team also proposed their book-bank project and E-Margalla project.  Dr. Irtiza answered the queries of the students and told them about the options they have. The students were asked to contact through emails for any other doubts they had and were advised to choose their events as soon as possible. The focus this week was to motivate and encourage the students to take on projects they are passionate about and take initiative.

The Nust Community Services Course: What you need to know

At Nust all the students in their last year of bachelors have to take a Community Services Course. The aim of the course is to instill a sense of social responsibility in the people and to provide them with opportunities that will help them experience the joy of giving their time to a cause. The coursework requires the students to end seminars by faculty and guest lecturers alike, volunteering at community service events and filling out reports about their experience. The coursework comprises of 2 credit hours, one is made up of theoretical work (ie workshops and seminars etc) and the other is made up of volunteering hours. The participants of this course are required to complete 30 hours of community work to complete the relevant credit hour. These hours can be completed both on campus and off campus owing to the convenience of the participant.
One thing that the course needs to make more of an impact is increased input from the participants, especially when it comes to organizing events and conducting donation drives. Original ideas that the participants will own is only bound to bring energy and enthusiasm in this really important initiative. What really changes the way participants look at society and its problems is by direct interaction with the people they are trying to help. Going to old homes, orphanages or even the streets and spending time with the people there both encourages them and also gives the participants a feeling of satisfaction for giving back to society.
Here are a few ideas that the participants could give their time to in order to make the most out of this course:
– Volunteering at hospitals
– Organizing a picnic with senior citizens
– Become pen pals with children at orphanages
– Deliver to homeless people
– Providing refreshments at local sport tournaments
– Produce short films encouraging no drug use and violence
– Create and distribute a list of hotlines for kids who might need help