ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Red Crescent Society (PRCS) Chairman Abrarul Haq on Saturday said Red Crescent was committed to protecting humanity, providing relief and supportg to people through its humanitarian interventions.

In his message on World Humanitarian Day, Mr Haq said the day reminded about those who lost their lives to the humanitarian cause and it was due to their sacrifices, humanitarian workers were reaching the vulnerable throughout the world.

He said the Covid-19 pandemic had drawn attention across the world to the vital role of key workers, especially those employed in the healthcare sector.

“Despite the hardships and health risks, hundreds of thousands of frontline workers had continued to do their jobs during the Covid-19 pandemic, even at the cost of their own lives and safety of their families. We pay tribute to all the humanitarian workers across the world those have been overcoming unprecedented access hurdles to assist people in this crisis,” he said.

The PRCS also arranged lectures for around 100 students under the Access English scholarship programme at its national headquarters in collaboration with the Access English Micro scholarship project of the Regional English Language Office (RELO) Pakistan.

The students were briefed on the importance, objectives and history of the World Humanitarian Day.

The PRCS officers gave a detailed presentation to participants on Red Crescent’s countrywide humanitarian programmes and initiatives.

Students were sensitised on blood donation and first aid skills to help people during disasters and emergencies.

On this occasion, students registered themselves as volunteers with PRCS Youth and Volunteer Department to join humanitarian activities. PRCS officers and staff also attended the ceremony.

World Humanitarian Day (WHD) is observed every year on Aug 19. The day is recognised globally to pay tribute and homage to the brave hearts who leave no stone unturned to come forward and work towards a humanitarian cause.

The theme for this year is ‘It takes a village to raise a child’ that aims at showing the importance, effectiveness, and positive impact of humanitarian work.

Published in Dawn, August 21st, 2022